We know the question on your mind, San Diegans — when is it truly going to feel like winter? Thanks to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Climate Prediction Center, we know what temperatures and precipitation trends to expect in SD for December, January, and February.
While exact weather conditions typically can’t be predicted more than a week in advance, here’s a seasonal outlook to help you prepare for what winter will bring.
Reminder: Winter begins on Saturday, Dec. 21.
San Diegans know we have it pretty good when it comes to winter temps.
Image via NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center
Temperature
Think slightly warm. This winter, San Diego has a 33-40% chance of temps leaning above normal.
Precipitation
With La Niña developing, precipitation may be a bit unpredictable this season — and likely drier than the last two winters. NOAA predicts normal precipitation amounts in parts of San Diego County, but further east, precipitation is likely to lean 33-40% below normal.
Drought
Drought conditions are likely being kept at bay. January-October 2024 made for the 38th wettest year to date in San Diego County in the past 130 years, and October 2024 was the 14th driest on record.
Drizzlin’ in December
San Diegans know we have it good when it comes to winter: The average high temperature in December is 63.3° and the nighttime low is 52.7°. It’s typically the month with the most rainfall — 5.8 days, or up to 1.65 inches of total rain — and the shortest days with 10 hours of daylight.
Keeping it cool in January
SD usually kicks off the new year with slightly cooler temperatures and rain: An average high of 63.1° and 1.06 inches of accumulated precipitation in January. This month is known to bring higher humidity — approximately 60%. Combined with cooler temps on land and sea, this could make the weather feel colder than it is. January-March have the lowest UV Index, but sunscreen is always a good idea.
Chillin’ in February
February usually brings the coldest temps: An average high of 63.1° and low of 51.8°. Average ocean temperatures dip to 58.7° — the coldest month of the year for SD’s seawater. At just over 11 hours, the days are getting slightly longer.
