Wet winter storm expected to come and go quickly

SAN DIEGO (CNS) – Rain, snow and gusty winds were expected throughout
San Diego County Thursday, thanks to a cold low pressure system from the
Northwest, meteorologists said.

The National Weather Service issued a winter weather advisory for the
mountains from 7 a.m. Thursday to 1 a.m. Friday, saying the snow level would be
around 6,000 feet this morning and fall to about 3,500-4,000 feet by Thursday night.

A wind advisory was in effect early Thursday in the mountains and deserts,
scheduled to remain in effect until 7 p.m.

Coastal and valley areas were likely to see rain this morning, followed
by a slight chance of rain and thunderstorms Thursday afternoon, according to the
weather service. Rainfall totals from Thursday were expected to range from a
quarter to three-quarters of an inch in lower elevations west of the mountains.

“Snow showers will begin early this morning in the higher elevations of
San Bernardino and Riverside County mountains, peak in the afternoon and
spread south into San Diego County, then taper off late tonight,” an NWS
advisory said.

A general dusting of snow was expected below 4,000 feet, 2 to 4 inches
of snow was expected to accumulate between 4,000 and 6,000 feet, and up to 7
inches was expected on San Diego's highest peaks.

Sustained southwest to west winds of 20 to 30 miles per hour were
expected to accompany the snow showers, with gusts mainly up to 50 mph.
Isolated gusts up to 60 mph were also possible, especially near mountain ridge
tops and on desert slopes, according to the weather service.

“Residents and travelers into the mountains should be prepared for
hazardous winter weather conditions and possible road closures,” the agency
said. “If possible, carry chains and take extra food and clothing.”

The storm was also expected to affect coastal waters off San Diego
County today. A small craft advisory for strong winds and choppy seas was
scheduled from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

“A small craft advisory means that wind speeds of 21 to 33 knots are
expected to produce hazardous wave conditions to small craft,” the NWS said.
“Inexperienced mariners, especially those operating smaller vessels, should
avoid navigating in these conditions.”