Southwestern California is in for a mix of weather this weekend as a trough sweeps through the region, according to the National Weather Service. Cloudy skies, breezy winds, and light rain are expected, with showers becoming most likely later today in northern areas near the Los Angeles basin. By this evening, San Diego County could see some rainfall, though amounts will be modest. Rain totals could reach up to half an inch on coastal slopes in San Diego County, but most areas will see less than a tenth of an inch. A dusting of snow may fall above 6,000 feet, though chances are slim. Winds will also pick up, with gusts of 35-50 mph expected in areas like the Anza Borrego Desert.
As the trough moves eastward into Arizona and New Mexico, dry and gusty Santa Ana winds will set in by late Sunday. The strongest winds, with gusts of 35 to 55 mph, will impact the Inland Empire and parts of Orange County from Sunday night into Monday morning. This brings elevated fire weather concerns to the region. Winds will gradually diminish by late Monday as the pressure gradient eases. By midweek, a secondary low-pressure system could bring more Santa Ana winds before conditions quiet down and temperatures return to near average later in the week. Residents should prepare for shifting weather patterns and stay alert to fire weather advisories.