Coastal San Diego awoke to scattered rain, thunder and lightning Saturday as the remnants of Hurricane Dolores moved offshore from Baja California.
Moderate to heavy rain moved ashore along the coast through the morning, and one severe thunderstorm cell forced lifeguards to withdraw from their towers and warn beachgoers to take shelter.
Rainfall across the county ranged from a tenth to a quarter inch by noon, though there were pockets of higher rainfall in the east county back country.
Dolores is also bringing higher than average surf and strong rip currents. A National Weather Service beach hazards forecast was scheduled to be in effect through Monday evening. Meteorologists said large south swells generated by the storm could reach local beaches as soon as Saturday night.
“Monsoon moisture will bring a chance of showers and thunderstorms this weekend, and some contribution of that moisture could come from the remnants of Dolores,” according to the weather service. “In addition, Dolores will generate large southerly swell that will produce big surf and strong rip currents on south facing beaches this weekend.”
Swells of up to 7 feet could be possible along south-facing beaches. Thunderstorms with cloud-to-ground lightning and heavy downpours could also be possible along the coast this weekend, as well as gusty winds. Forecasters said there would be a 30 percent chance of measurable precipitation in coastal areas Saturday and Sunday.
Beachgoers were advised to abide by posted warning signs, talk to a lifeguard before swimming and use caution in or near the water.
City News Service contributed to this article.
