Tropical Storm Rachel Approaches San Diego County: Prepare for Impacts

San Diego County residents are urged to prepare immediately as Tropical Storm Rachel is expected to bring significant impacts from late tonight, October 10, through Sunday afternoon. The National Weather Service (NWS) San Diego has issued a Tropical Storm Watch for all San Diego County Coastal Areas, Inland Valleys, Mountains, and Deserts.

Tropical Storm Rachel, currently located about 520 miles south-southwest of San Diego, is moving northeast at 22 mph and is forecast to make landfall just south of the U.S./Mexico Border Saturday evening. Main concerns include coastal flooding, high winds, and periods of heavy rain leading to localized and flash flooding.

Expect high tides over 7 feet combined with 6 to 9-foot surf and gusty onshore winds, increasing the threat of significant coastal flooding and beach erosion. Widespread rain is anticipated Sunday, with the heaviest amounts in mountain and desert areas. Peak rainfall rates could reach 0.70 to 1 inch per hour in the mountains. Flash and urban flooding are probable. Sustained winds of 39+ mph are expected, particularly in southern and eastern San Diego County, with gusts up to 60 mph possible in mountain ridges, passes, and canyons.

Residents should secure outdoor items, monitor local news, NOAA Weather Radio, and weather.gov for updates. Follow any evacuation orders from local officials. Prepare an emergency plan and supplies kit. Those in flood-prone areas should plan to move to higher ground. The next NWS update is expected around 2 PM PDT.