Snow Possible Down to 2,500 Feet Wednesday and Thursday

Update: The National Weather Service has adjusted its forecast to issue a winter weather advisory for Wednesday in San Diego County mountains, to replace the earlier winter storm watch.

The weather advisory is in effect from 1 p.m. Wednesday afternoon until 10 a.m. Thursday above 3,000 feet. Four to six inches of snow is now expected in the highest elevations, with possibly more in localized thunderstorms. Light snow could fall to 2,500 feet.

Strong west to southwest winds are expected throughout the county Wednesday. Gusts of up to 50 mph are possible in the mountains; 45 mph in the deserts; and 35 mph are anticipated along the coast and in the inland valleys.

Showers and a possible thunderstorm are expected throughout the county late afternoon Wednesday and into the evening.

In the mountains, blowing snow and fog may reduce visibility to near zero at times. Motorists should be prepared for road closures and should have chains and extra clothes, food and water with them, warns the Weather Service.

Surf up to 9 feet and rip currents are possible at beaches from Cardiff to the Mexican border from 10 a.m. Wednesday to 2 p.m. Thursday.

A small craft advisory for hazardous conditions has been issued from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Wednesday. Wind up to 33 knots is anticipated and inexperienced mariners are advised against navigating in these conditions, especially if they are in small vessels.