Sunday Storm Could Bring High Winds, Winter Weather to Certain Areas

Mountain snow, gusty winds and rain in valleys and coastal areas are expected Sunday as a Pacific storm moves into the county, according to the National Weather Service.

A period of moderate to heavy rain is expected late Sunday afternoon. Showers were expected to continue Sunday night but end early Monday, say forecasters.

Rainfall amounts are expected to range from about a quarter to half an inch near the coast and half an inch to 1 inch in the mountains. One-tenth of an inch or less is expected in desert areas.

Coastal areas and valleys were also expected to get south to southwest winds of between 15 and 25 mph with gusts up to 45 mph. The strongest winds are expected to blow though midafternoon through early Sunday evening. 

The wind could down power lines or tree limbs and could make for difficult driving conditions, especially for high profile vehicles, said the weather service.

The National Weather Service also issued a wind advisory that will remain in effect from noon to 8 p.m. Sunday.

The storm could also bring heavy snowfall Sunday night to mountain areas including Cuyamaca, Mount Laguna and Ranchita.

The weather service issued a winter weather advisory that will go into effect at 6 p.m. Sunday for areas with an altitude higher than 5,000 feet. Accumulations of
between 2 and 4 inches are expected in areas above  5,000 feet and up to 8 inches could fall in higher areas. 

Winds of between 20 and 30 mph with gusts of up to 50 mph are also expected with the strongest winds near ridge tops and along desert mountain slopes.

Blowing snow and fog could reduce visibility to near zero at times. Residents and travelers in higher elevations were advised to be prepared for hazardous driving conditions due to slick roads and to carry chains, extra food and clothing.

The low pressure system over the eastern Pacific is expected to move east Saturday night and inland over Southern California late Sunday into early Monday, according to forecasters.