Heavy rain to diminish, wind advisory still in effect in mountains, deserts

SAN DIEGO - Heavy rain generated by a late season Pacific storm pounded San Diego County today, but the precipitation was expected to diminish by sunrise as the the low-pressure system moves northeast, forecasters said.

There were also gusty winds and thunderstorms in the region overnight, according to the National Weather Service.

A wind advisory was in effect in the mountains and deserts until 2 p.m. The Weather Service said 15- to 30-mile per hour southwest-to-west winds would be gusting at up to 50 mph throughout the advisory period.

''These winds will make driving difficult, especially for motorists with high profile vehicles,'' a NWS advisory read. ''Watch for broken tree limbs and downed power lines. Visibility may be reduced in blowing dust and sand.''

Highs today were expected to be in the low 60s at the beaches, low to mid-60s in the western valleys, high 50s to low 60s near the foothills, 50s in the mountains and mid-70s in the deserts.

Warmer weather and mostly sunny skies are expected Friday.