Subtropical Jet Stream Drives San Diego Rain, Tides

El Niño and a marine heat wave are pushing storms and elevated tides toward the San Diego coast.

Updated on Nov. 1, 2026 in Current Conditions

Subtropical Jet Stream Drives San Diego Rain, Tides

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A subtropical jet stream has formed between Hawaii and California, funneling El Niño-charged storms toward the West Coast. A new storm moved into San Diego County Saturday night, and the county has received about twice its typical October rainfall.

Why it matters

The atmospheric pattern is carrying extraordinary amounts of moisture into the region, and warmer ocean water is amplifying high tides along the coastline. Local drainage has already been overwhelmed, showing how these conditions can strain the city's infrastructure.

The La Jolla tide gauge, which has been recording for 102 years, logged a 9-foot, 0.98-inch enhanced high tide, about 1½ feet above normal. Forecasters have not said how long the subtropical jet stream pattern will persist.

The details

A subtropical jet stream, typically 200 to 300 miles wide and moving 140 to 180 mph six to eight miles above the ocean, has set up between Hawaii and California. El Niño and a marine heat wave warmed the water, expanding it and raising morning high tides, which backed up drainage and caused minor spot flooding in Point Loma, Pacific Beach, Mission Beach and along Harbor Drive.

Earlier this year: a marine heat wave developed along the California coastline.
October: San Diego County received about twice its typical rainfall.
Saturday night, Oct. 31, 2026: a new storm moved into San Diego County.
Last week, peaking Tuesday: the enhanced high tide reached 9 feet, 0.98 inches in La Jolla.
Nov. 24 to 26 and Dec. 23 to 25: additional king tides are expected in San Diego County.

Seasonal Patterns

The subtropical jet stream and rainfall are the continuation of El Niño conditions that also produced this year's marine heat wave along the California coastline. The December king tides are projected to coincide with a stronger El Niño, which would extend the pattern into the winter season.

Residents near Point Loma, Pacific Beach, Mission Beach and Harbor Drive should expect possible spot flooding during high tides. Drivers should use caution on flood-prone roads during the storm and the upcoming king tide windows.

The takeaway

Monitor tide forecasts before traveling to coastal areas during king tide periods, since low-lying streets near drainage outlets are most exposed. Planning ahead for the December tides can reduce disruption to commutes and beach access.