Weekend Weather: Above-Average Surf and Strong, Gusty Winds in Areas

Updated at 9:30 a.m. March 30, 2012

Above-average surf is expected in San Diego County this weekend, along with strong, gusty winds in mountain and desert areas.

Two large ocean swells will affect the beaches, creating high surf, difficult swimming conditions and strong rip currents, according to the National Weather Service.

A few beaches in northern San Diego County could see surf of 4 to 8 feet by Saturday. Weather Service forecasters estimated that by early Sunday, the surf could reach 6 to 10 feet, with sets of 12 feet. It is expected to gradually diminish by Monday afternoon.

A high wind warning for the mountains was scheduled from 4 p.m. Saturday to 10 a.m. Sunday. Winds of between 20 and 30 miles per hour with 55 mph gusts are expected during the advisory period, and even 70 mph gusts are possible, mainly along desert mountains and slopes and adjacent desert areas, according to the weather service.

The winds, coinciding with a cold, quick-moving storm, will be strongest Saturday night, forecasters said, urging motorists to watch out for broken tree limbs and downed power lines.

“Sustained wind speeds of at least 40 mph or gusts of 58 mph or more can lead to property damage,”' an advisory said.

—City News Service