Cold Weather Could be 'Deadly' for Unprepared Hikers, Says Agency

A cold storm system that will drop the local snow level to an unusually low 2,000-2,500 feet will arrive in San Diego County late Friday, forecasters said.

A winter storm watch for the mountains is scheduled to be in effect from Friday night through Saturday night.

The National Weather Service expects 6 to 12 inches of snow above 3,500 feet and around 20 inches above 5,500 feet. The snow level will drop to around 2,000- 2,500 feet by Saturday night, according to the NWS.

"With such low snow levels possible, this weather could be deadly for unprepared campers or hikers,'' the agency advised.

Meanwhile, a deep trough of low pressure and a wet, extra-cold front will put a heavy winter chill on the Poway area, according to the agency.

Late Friday night, cloudbursts will soak the already damp region once again, and the downpours should continue in earnest through at least part of Saturday morning.

Precipitation amounts are expected to range from three-quarters of an inch along the coast to three-plus inches in mountain locales.

The storm is headed to the region from the Seattle area, along with gusty winds and very cool temperatures 20 to 25 degrees below average for this time of year, according to the National Weather Service.

The agency also advised that isolated thunderstorms are possible on Saturday, when the highs are expected to be in the 40s and lower 50s.

Rainfall totals are expected to range from three- quarters to 1.25 inches near the coast to 2.5 to 3.5 inches in the mountains, and half to three-quarters of an inch in the deserts.

City News Service contributed to this report.