A powerful storm system reached San Diego County overnight Friday, bringing with it thunderstorms and heavy rainfall that caused localized flooding and prompted a daring rescue operation in El Cajon. While most residents were asleep, the storm unleashed relentless downpours and flashes of lightning, leaving behind a trail of damage.

The National Weather Service documented a total of 31 cloud-to-ground lightning strikes and over 130 lightning bursts over coastal waters in San Diego County. The storm primarily targeted San Diego during the night, but scattered showers are expected to persist throughout the day on Friday.

Meteorologist Sheena Parveen from NBC 7 reported that the region is expected to receive minimal rainfall following the early morning deluge. The city of San Diego had taken preventive measures by closing flood-prone streets in the Mission Valley area. Some roads near Fashion Valley also remained closed on Friday afternoon.

In the early hours of Friday, emergency responders rescued a woman and her dog from a storm channel in El Cajon after they were caught in floodwaters. The woman was immediately transported to a local hospital, and her current condition is unknown. Additionally, Carlsbad experienced temporary road closures due to multiple hazards caused by the storm, but these roads were reopened for the morning commute.

Although the heaviest rain is now mostly over, there is still a possibility of flooding in certain areas close to rivers and some streets. A flood watch remains in effect until Friday afternoon.

According to the National Weather Service, Point Loma saw up to 0.63 inches of rainfall, while Shelter Island received 0.64 inches overnight. Meteorologist Parveen added that while the storm is slowly moving out of San Diego County, scattered showers and potential thunderstorms may persist throughout Friday. Temperatures are expected to be cool.

Looking ahead to the Christmas Eve weekend, Parveen predicts a dry Sunday with slightly cooler temperatures at night, hovering around the high 40s along the coast. On Christmas Day, residents can anticipate mostly sunny weather, accompanied by temperatures reaching the upper 60s along the coast.

As San Diego County continues to recover from the overnight storm, residents are urged to remain cautious and vigilant while navigating potentially flooded areas.