Winter storm drops measurable snow on San Diego County mountains as rain, wind affect region

Snowfall reported in higher elevations as a multi-day storm moves through the county

A winter storm moving across Southern California brought mountain snow to San Diego County on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, while widespread rain and strong winds affected coastal, valley, mountain and desert communities. Snow was reported at Mount Laguna Lodge, where approximately three inches accumulated, as colder air lowered snow levels during the event.

The storm arrived as part of a larger Pacific weather pattern delivering colder air and unstable conditions across California. In San Diego County, the system produced intermittent heavy rain bands, periods of gusty winds, and isolated thunderstorm activity, with impacts expected to continue into Thursday, February 19.

Rainfall totals vary sharply by location, with several mountain and foothill sites topping two inches

Over a 48-hour period ending late Tuesday morning, rainfall totals showed pronounced differences across the county’s microclimates. Several mountain and inland locations recorded more than two inches, including Lake Cuyamaca (3.52 inches), Pine Hills (3.26), Julian (3.16), Volcan Mountain (2.38) and Henshaw Dam (2.23). Mount Laguna recorded 1.24 inches during the same period.

Across the coast and inland valleys, totals were generally lower but still substantial for short-duration winter rainfall, including 1.03 inches at San Diego International Airport and 1.19 inches in Mission Valley. The deserts saw lighter accumulations, including 0.34 inches in Borrego Springs.

Wind, surf and travel conditions add to hazards beyond rainfall and snow

Forecasters expected the storm to remain active through Thursday, bringing continued periods of rain and mountain snow alongside strong winds. Gusts were projected to be strongest near mountain crests and along east-facing slopes, where downslope wind events can intensify impacts for nearby communities and highways.

Marine conditions were also expected to remain dangerous through the latter part of the week, with very large surf forecast to peak Tuesday and Wednesday along west-facing beaches. Such conditions typically increase the risk of coastal flooding in low-lying areas, along with rip currents and wave run-up hazards.

Lightning triggers a brush incident; no injuries reported

During the storm, overnight lightning was reported across parts of the county. Around 3 a.m. Tuesday, a lightning strike sparked a fire at a nursery on Highland Valley Road in the area east of Lake Hodges and north of Rancho Bernardo. Authorities reported that roughly 100 trees burned, with no injuries and no reported structural damage.

What residents can track in the next 48 hours

• Snow levels and any accumulation near major mountain routes, including the Interstate 8 corridor at higher elevations.
• Short-duration heavy downpours that can overwhelm drainage and cause localized street flooding.
• Wind-driven hazards, including falling tree limbs and difficult driving conditions for high-profile vehicles.
• High surf conditions along west-facing beaches through midweek.

Looking ahead, conditions were expected to trend warmer and drier after the storm exits, with temperatures forecast to rebound above seasonal averages into the weekend.