Tropical Storm Rachel Threatens San Diego County This Weekend

San Diego County residents are urged to prepare for Tropical Storm Rachel, expected to bring coastal flooding, strong winds, and heavy rain to the region this Sunday. A Tropical Storm Watch is in effect for all San Diego County Coastal Areas, Deserts, Mountains, and Valleys, as issued by the National Weather Service (NWS) San Diego CA.

Tropical Storm Rachel, currently located approximately 800 miles southwest of San Diego, is moving northeast and is anticipated to make landfall near the US/Mexico border late Saturday night. The most significant impacts are expected throughout Sunday, October 11, 2026.

Residents in low-lying areas, near the coast, or with poor drainage are advised to plan to move to safe shelter on higher ground. Prepare for potential power and communications outages, and secure any loose outdoor objects. Dangerous coastal flooding and beach erosion are highly possible due to high tides over 7 feet, significant surf (6 to 9 feet), and strong onshore winds. Flash and urban flooding are also possible, particularly in mountain and desert areas where rainfall rates could reach 0.70 to 1 inch per hour. The San Diego River at Fashion Valley is forecast to peak near monitor stage Sunday afternoon; those near the river should monitor conditions closely.

Stay informed by monitoring weather.gov, NOAA Weather Radio, and local news outlets for official updates. The NWS San Diego CA will issue the next local statement around 8 PM PDT.