Thunderstorms to bring dangerous ocean conditions to San Diego

Sep 2, 2025 - 22:00

SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) -- Thunderstorms are forecast to move through the region Tuesday and could create dangerous conditions in the Pacific Ocean off San Diego as they head west, according to the National Weather Service.

The National Weather Service forecasts scattered showers and isolated thunderstorms are expected hit eastern San Diego County mountains and deserts then push west into coastal areas.

Scattered showers, along with isolated to scattered thunderstorms, will move into the region this morning. Locally intense rain and gusty winds with any thunderstorm. Chances decrease near the coast late in the day, but continue inland through the evening (PHOTO: National Weather Service)

Thunderstorms could bring gusty winds, choppy seas and low visibility, NWS reports.

NWS issued a Marine Weather Statement on Tuesday from San Mateo Point to the Mexican Border and out 10 nautical miles, including San Clemente Island.

NWS forecasts scattered showers and thunderstorms are possible through Tuesday afternoon over the coastal and outer waters off San Diego County. Those storms could create dangerous ocean conditions and choppy seas, with gusty winds and the potential for cloud-to-sea lightning.

*NWS issues Marine Weather Statement (tan) for Pacific Ocean off San Diego for Sept. 2, 2025 (National Weather Service)*

Boaters are urged to monitor weather conditions closely and to avoid traveling near rain showers and thunderstorms.

Imperial County is also expected to see thunderstorms Tuesday and the rest of the week. The City of El Centro posted on social media to expect periods of heavy rain, lightning, gusty winds and localized flash flooding. Nearby Yuma, Arizona and portions of I-8 are under a severe thunderstorm warning with heavy down pours, over 60 mph wind gusts and blowing dust expected, NWS says.

This comes as much of San Diego County is under a heat advisory through Tuesday evening as the daytime heat and monsoonal moisture contribute to create the potential for thunderstorms.

Baja California is also getting hit with monsoons this week, with heavy rain, gusty winds and high surf. The government said flooding from overflowed streams and landslides could also take place in highland areas.

A ground stop was issued Tuesday morning at San Diego Intl-Lindbergh Field Airport (SAN) due to lightening detected from thunderstorms. Flights were briefly halted.

Video reposted by the Steele/Burnand Anza-Borrego Desert Research Center shows lightening northwest of Borrego Springs Tuesday morning.

Chances of rain and thunderstorms in the region continue through at least Thursday.

Full forecast at fox5sandiego.com/weather