Tornado Warning Issued For Parts Of San Diego County

SAN DIEGO, CA — A rare tornado warning was issued Tuesday for a stretch of east and south San Diego County.

The warning was prompted around 11:45 a.m. after spiraling clouds were seen in the sky heading northeast over Chula Vista, according to the National Weather Service.

The initial warning was issued until 12:15 p.m. and later extended until 12:45 p.m. for parts of East County and the South Bay.

A "severe thunderstorm" capable of producing a tornado was spotted at noon over El Cajon, moving northeast at 35 mph. The NWS said "radar indicated rotation" and that pea-sized hail could be possible for the area.

Impacted communities included Bonita, Bostonia, Casa De Oro-Mount Helix, Crest, El Cajon, Flinn Springs, Granite Hills, Harbison Canyon, Jamacha Lomita, La Mesa, La Presa, Lake Murray, Lakeside, Lemon Grove, Rancho San Diego, Santee, Spring Valley, Tierrasanta and Winter Gardens.

"Flying debris will be dangerous to those caught without shelter," the NWS warned. "Mobile homes will be damaged or destroyed. Damage to roofs, windows, and vehicles will occur. Tree damage is likely."

Forecasters advised residents to avoid windows and move to a basement or an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building. Weather officials said people outdoors, in a mobile home, or in a vehicle should move to the "closest substantial shelter" and protect themselves from flying debris.