San Diego County battered after storm's first round of rain and strong winds

More rain, gusty winds, and possible snow expected as storm continues through Wednesday

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

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A strong storm system brought heavy rain, gusty winds, and the potential for light snow to San Diego County on Monday, with more rounds of inclement weather expected through Wednesday. The storm has already caused flooding, downed trees, and damage to homes and businesses, with a high surf advisory also in effect along the coast.

Why it matters

The back-to-back storms hitting San Diego County are disrupting daily life, causing property damage, and raising concerns about public safety as high winds, heavy rain, and potential snow create hazardous conditions across the region. The severe weather also comes on the heels of previous flooding events that have impacted local businesses, underscoring the ongoing challenges the community faces from extreme weather.

The details

On Monday, most of San Diego County received between 0.5 to 1 inch of rain, with more showers expected overnight into Tuesday morning. There is also a slight chance for light snow on Mount Laguna and Palomar Mountain. Tuesday will see a break in the rain during the day, but another round of the storm is expected Tuesday night, bringing more rain and strong winds. A wind advisory is in effect for all of San Diego County from Tuesday night through Wednesday morning, with gusts up to 45 mph possible. Snow levels could drop below 5,000 feet by Wednesday morning, though significant accumulation is not expected at lower elevations. The high surf advisory remains in effect through Friday, with waves up to 10 feet and dangerous rip currents.

  • On Monday evening, San Diego County received 0.5 to 1 inch of rain.
  • More rain is expected overnight Monday through Tuesday morning.
  • A wind advisory will be in effect for San Diego County from Tuesday night through Wednesday morning.
  • Snow levels could drop below 5,000 feet by Wednesday morning.
  • The high surf advisory is in effect through Friday.

The players

Greg Bledsoe

NBC 7 meteorologist who provided weather forecasts and information about the storm.

Maria Higgins

A Pacific Beach resident who witnessed a Torrey Pine tree fall on a house and car during the storm.

Jake Britt

Another Pacific Beach neighbor who commented on the tree falling during the storm.

Caroline Jackson

The owner of 1502 Candle Co. in Mission Valley, whose business was impacted by flooding from the storm.

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What they’re saying

“It was really loud and then the house shook a little bit.”

— Maria Higgins, Pacific Beach resident (nbcsandiego.com)

“Its crazy to think weather is capable of such a thing.”

— Jake Britt, Pacific Beach neighbor (nbcsandiego.com)

“It's just horrible. I'm grateful that it wasn't my home, but at the same time it's just, it's just such a hard thing to go through with your business.”

— Caroline Jackson, Owner of 1502 Candle Co. (nbcsandiego.com)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This storm highlights the ongoing challenges San Diego County faces from extreme weather events, including the need for improved infrastructure, emergency preparedness, and support for businesses and residents impacted by flooding, high winds, and other storm-related damage.