San Diego Swept by Surprise Tropical Storm

San Diego Swept by Surprise Tropical StormSan Diego Swept by Surprise Tropical Storm The tranquil coastal city of San Diego was caught off guard on Monday as Tropical Storm Lester made an unexpected landfall, unleashing torrential rain and powerful gusts of wind. The storm, which had been downgraded to a tropical depression earlier in the day, suddenly regained strength and intensified as it approached Southern California. By the time it hit San Diego, it had regained tropical storm status. Residents were caught by surprise as the rain began pounding down shortly after midnight. Within hours, streets were flooded, cars were submerged, and trees were uprooted. The National Weather Service reported that some areas received over eight inches of rain in a matter of hours. High winds also battered the city, causing power outages and disrupting transportation. San Diego International Airport was temporarily closed due to flooding and debris on the runways. The storm surge caused significant damage along the coast, with waves crashing over seawalls and battering beachside properties. A number of homes and businesses were flooded, and several roads were washed out. Emergency crews worked tirelessly throughout the night and into the early morning hours to respond to the storm’s aftermath. Firefighters rescued people from flooded homes, while police officers directed traffic and cleared debris. The City of San Diego declared a state of emergency, and the Red Cross opened shelters for those displaced by the storm. As the storm moved inland, it continued to unleash heavy rain and wind, causing flooding and power outages in neighboring areas. By Tuesday morning, the storm had passed, leaving behind a trail of destruction. San Diego was still reeling from the impact, with crews working to restore power, clear roads, and repair damaged infrastructure. The unexpected tropical storm served as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of weather and the importance of preparedness. Residents were urged to stay informed about potential weather hazards and to have emergency plans in place for future events.