WINTER STORM WARNING: COLD STORM TO BATTER AREA, SNOW COULD DROP TO 2,000 FEET

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By Miriam Raftery

January 10, 2013 (San Diego’s East County)—Expect chilly temperatures through the weekend as a cold front sweeps into the region.  A winter storm warning has been issued for mountains and deserts today, with snow levels dropping to as low as 2000 feet tonight.   That’s low enough to bring snow to Interstate 8 in East County  east of Alpine.  Rain is forecast for areas west of the mountains.

Snow is expected to impact the following areas today, dropping even lower tonight: Cuyamaca, Descanso, Julian, Mount Laguna, Pine Valley, Ranchitta, Santa Ysabel, and Warner Springs. Visibility could be reduced to zero from blowing and drifting snow.  This weather could be deadly for hikers and campers caught unprepared, the National Weather Service warns.

A high wind warning has also been issued for mountain and desert areas, with gusts up to 65 mp and sustained winds of 25-30 mph. forecast. In coastal areas, flooding and rip currents are expected to produce hazardous conditions.

If you must drive in snow-impacted areas, carry chains, warm clothing, water and a flashlight.

The cold spell could be the worst since January 2007, when three days of below-freezing weather caused over $114 million in crop damage.  Cover cold-sensitive plants or bring indoors if possible.

  A coastal flood advisory is also in effect, with flooding of low-lying areas possible. High waves may wash over sea walls and jetties as well as the Ocean Beach Pier  as well Pacific Coast Highway from  Sunset Beach north, as well as on Coast Highway 101 from Cardiff to Del Mar. Strong rip currents will make entering the water extremely dangerous, the National Weather Service advises.


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