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San Diego Mountains Under Winter Storm Watch

A view of snow blanketing the trees and hillside at the 6,000 foot elevation on Mt. Laguna, taken from the Mount Laguna Retreat Center on Sunrise Highway, on February 20, 2011.
Courtesy of Ryan Johnson
A view of snow blanketing the trees and hillside at the 6,000 foot elevation on Mt. Laguna, taken from the Mount Laguna Retreat Center on Sunrise Highway, on February 20, 2011.

A cold, blustery storm from the north is expected to move into San Diego County early Saturday morning, bringing heavy rain to coastal and inland areas and snow to the mountains.

A winter storm watch is in effect in the mountains through Saturday night, with snow levels dropping to 3,000 feet, according to the National Weather Service. The highest elevations could see 4 to 8 inches of snow accumulation.

"Residents and travelers into the mountains should be prepared for hazardous winter weather conditions and possible road closures. If possible, carry chains and take extra food and clothing," the agency stated.

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Rainfall totals are expected to reach a quarter of an inch along the coast and up to 1 inch for inland areas.

A frost advisory is in place in the inland valleys through 9 a.m. Friday, but overnight freezing temperatures are expected through the weekend.