San Diego Faces High Surf, Coastal Flood Warnings
San Diego Faces High Surf, Coastal Flood Warnings
US · Published Oct 13, 2026
• San Diego County is experiencing lingering high surf and coastal flood warnings following a weekend storm that brought significant rainfall and strong winds. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a coastal flood advisory through Tuesday afternoon, cautioning residents about hazardous surf and rip currents. Rainfall totals over the weekend ranged from over six inches in the East County highlands to less than an inch in some coastal and desert areas. The storm caused widespread disruptions, including flooding, mudslides, and traffic accidents, with one fatality reported on Interstate
• A wind advisory along Interstate 8, which ended early Monday, saw gusts reaching up to 60 mph. The county's Department of Environmental Health and Quality has also issued a rain advisory for all coastal beaches and bays, warning of elevated bacteria levels due to urban runoff.

Impact & Risks

The high surf and coastal flood warnings pose risks to beachgoers, with hazardous rip currents and potential flooding in low-lying coastal areas. Urban runoff has significantly increased bacteria levels near storm drains, creeks, and rivers, making water contact activities unsafe for at least 72 hours after the rain. The storm also caused widespread damage, including downed power lines, transformer fires, and traffic collisions. Emergency services were stretched thin, responding to multiple rescues and incidents across the county. Residents in flood-prone areas and those near the coast should remain vigilant.

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