Record Heat Continues Across San Diego County

Temperatures soar to new highs before a big cooldown on the way

Mar. 3, 2026 at 2:23am

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San Diego County has seen a string of record-breaking high temperatures, with several cities tying or setting new records on Saturday. Borrego in particular set a monthly record, marking the fourth day in a row it has done so. However, the region is set to see a significant cooldown by Monday, with temperatures dropping around 10-15 degrees and returning to average levels.

Why it matters

The extreme heat wave is putting a strain on the region's power grid and raising concerns about the impacts of climate change. While residents have been able to enjoy the unseasonably warm weather, the sudden shift back to average temperatures could be jarring.

The details

On Saturday, several cities across San Diego County set or tied new high temperature records, including Chula Vista (84F), Vista (86F), Alpine (88F), El Cajon (92F), Escondido (95F), Ramona (88F), Lake Cuyamaca (76F), Campo (87F), and Borrego (99F). Borrego's 99F reading marked a new monthly record, the fourth day in a row it has set a new high.

  • On Saturday, February 28th, 2026, record high temperatures were set or tied across San Diego County.
  • Temperatures are expected to cool by about 10-15 degrees by Monday, March 2nd, 2026, returning to average levels.

The players

Max Goldwasser

ABC 10News weather anchor who reported on the record-breaking heat in San Diego County.

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What they’re saying

“There are so many daytime high record across San Diego County today I almost lost count! Enjoy it now, before a pretty big dip by Monday.”

— Max Goldwasser, ABC 10News Weather Anchor

What’s next

Residents should prepare for a significant cooldown by Monday, with temperatures returning to more average levels for this time of year. The region's power grid will also likely see reduced strain as the heat wave breaks.

The takeaway

The extreme heat wave in San Diego County is a stark reminder of the impacts of climate change, with record-breaking temperatures becoming more common. While residents have enjoyed the unseasonably warm weather, the sudden shift back to average temperatures could be jarring and highlights the need for the region to be prepared for more extreme weather events in the future.