Extreme Heat Wave Forecast for San Diego County

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The National Weather Service has issued a Heat Advisory and Extreme Heat Watch for San Diego County, with temperatures expected to reach 20-30 degrees above normal by the middle of the week. Daytime highs could break both daily and monthly records, with the potential for temperatures reaching over 100 degrees inland and in the deserts.

Why it matters

This prolonged heat wave is highly unusual for this time of year in San Diego County, raising concerns about the impacts on public health, energy usage, and the environment. The extreme temperatures could pose risks for vulnerable populations and put a strain on the power grid as residents seek relief through air conditioning.

The details

The National Weather Service has issued a Heat Advisory from Monday at 10 a.m. through Friday at 8 p.m. for the coast and valley communities, and an Extreme Heat Watch will also go into effect Thursday morning and last through 8 p.m. Friday for the mountains and deserts. Temperatures are expected to reach 80-90 degrees near the coast and 100-105 degrees inland, with the potential for some locations to break monthly records, especially on Friday which is forecast to be the hottest day of the week.

• The Heat Advisory is in effect from Monday, March 16 at 10 a.m. through Friday, March 20 at 8 p.m.
• The Extreme Heat Watch will go into effect on Thursday, March 19 at 10 a.m. and last through 8 p.m. on Friday, March 20

What’s next

County officials are urging residents to take precautions to stay cool and safe during the extreme heat, including drinking plenty of fluids, avoiding strenuous activities during the hottest parts of the day, and checking on vulnerable friends and neighbors.