Fast-moving late winter storm expected to move into area today

SAN DIEGO COUNTY - Rain, gusty wind, and mountain snow are expected in various locales across San Diego County today (Friday, March 11) as a fast-moving, late winter storm moves into the region.

The stormy weather is expected to begin this afternoon in San Bernardino and Orange counties, then spread out to the southeast this evening.

"A quick-moving Pacific cold front will sweep across the region from late this afternoon through Saturday morning, bringing a period of rain, isolated thunderstorms and gusty winds,'' according to the weather service. "Heavy snow will also be expected in the highest mountains.''

A National Weather Service wind advisory for the entire county will take effect from 4 p.m. today. It will expire along the coast and in the valleys at 4 a.m. Saturday, and in the mountains and deserts two hours later. Sustained winds of 25 to 35 miles per hour with gusts to 60 mph are in the forecast.

Forecasters said the strong winds may down tree limbs or kick up sand and dust, which could affect visibility along desert roadways.

The gusty wind may also affect air travel this afternoon and evening. An airport weather warning for Lindbergh Field will remain in effect from 4 p.m. to midnight, amid gusts that could potentially be around 30 knots, equal to about 34.5 mph.

"Southwest to westerly winds around 30 knots will be likely between 4 p.m. this afternoon and midnight this evening,'' according to the weather service. "In addition, there will be a slight chance of thunderstorms which would include cloud-to-ground lightning during this time period.''

Authorities have issued a small craft advisory for the coastal waters along the Southern California coastline to the Mexico border.

Travel in the mountains could be affected as well. Forecasters said the snow level would drop to around 5,500 feet by tonight.

Up to two inches of snow could accumulate at altitudes of 5,000 to 6,000 feet, two to four inches could fall in areas between 6,000 and up to six inches may blanket the highest peaks.

The mountain snow may also reduce visibility. The NWS advised motorists and residents of mountain areas to carry snow chains, extra food and clothing.

Up to an inch of rain is also expected in some mountain areas, along with a quarter to half an inch of rain in the valleys, a tenth to a 20th of an inch in the upper deserts and a tenth of an inch or less in the lower deserts.

The storm is expected to weaken Saturday morning, forecasters said.