Here’s Why San Diego Water Temperature is So Cold Right Now
Summer in Southern California is a time for surfing, swimming, and sunbathing on the beach, but the current San Diego water temperature might be throwing a wrench in those plans.
San Diego weather in July is typically warm and idyllic, with ocean temperatures in low to mid 70s — generally warm enough to surf in basic swimwear. However, according to the San Diego Union-Tribune, a current cold wave is sending surfers scrambling for their wet suits.
From San Clemente to Imperial Beach, the average ocean temperature is currently ranging from 63 degrees to 69 degrees. This means, unfortunately, that hypothermia is actually a concern with prolonged exposure.
The current chilly San Diego water temperature is being caused by upwelling, which happens when the wind blows at an angle to the coast. This pushes warm upper layers of water away from the shore, allowing cooler and deeper water to come up to the surface.
This illustration from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) paints a helpful picture of how upwelling works.
Along with the upwelling, this summer season has been marked by a lack of monsoonal moisture, which can trigger thunderstorms and humidity. However, monsoonal moisture could arrive in San Diego later in the week, according to the National Weather Service.
Although the San Diego water temperature is currently cold, NWS is predicting that air temperatures will remain generally seasonal from San Diego beaches to county deserts.
Media credit: Banner image licensed from Adobe, in-line image courtesy of noaa.gov
Mike Peterson is a writer, editor, and strategist based in San Diego. When he’s not writing and editing the La Jolla news, you can often find him practicing yoga, rock climbing, or exploring the outdoors with his wife and dog.
