A strong, cold low pressure system dropped down the West Coast from the Gulf of Alaska and directly over southern California. This storm was accompanied by isolated thunderstorms with small hail, moderate rain showers west of the mountains, winter storm conditions in the mountains, and very strong wind gusts along and below the ridges and desert slopes. Most coast and valley locations received between one-quarter and three-quarters of an inch of rain, while some foothill locations received between 1.0 and 1.5 inches of rain. The very cold conditions led to significantly low snow levels down to 2000 feet, with accumulations as low as 2300 feet (Shelter Valley ��� San Diego County). Most locations above 4000 feet received 6 to 13 inches of snow with widespread chain control everywhere. The high desert received up to 3 inches of snow as well, down to 2900 feet, closing several schools and requiring CHP escorts on Interstate 15. The snow also resulted in numerous accidents, especially along Interstate 15, where the northbound lanes in the high desert were closed for a time due to the sheer number of incidents. Snow and accidents also temporarily closed Interstate 8 near the Crestwood Pass on the morning of the 20th. Mountain and foothill locations received an additional 1 to 3 inches of snow from the morning showers. A second, smaller disturbance behind this low brought some light showers to San Diego County on the afternoon of the 21st. Amounts ranged from a few hundredths to two-tenths of an inch, mostly in the valleys and foothills.

High Surf in SAN DIEGO COUNTY COASTAL AREAS, CALIFORNIA
From 20-FEB-13 00:00:00 to 20-FEB-13 22:00:00 (PST-8)
Property damage: 0.00K
Crop damage: 0.00K
Reported by: Public

Surfline website reported 8 foot surf at Ocean Beach, Mission Beach, Scripps Beach and Imperial Pier on the 20th.

Strong Wind in COACHELLA VALLEY, CALIFORNIA
From 19-FEB-13 09:00:00 to 19-FEB-13 10:00:00 (PST-8)
Magnitude: 43.00 MG
Property damage: 5.00K
Crop damage: 0.00K
Reported by: Newspaper

A big rig overturned on Highway 111 at Overture Drive, near Windy Point. Northbound lanes were closed for more than two hours for a fuel spill cleanup. A highway department wind gauge 2.2 miles northwest of the accident measured gusts of 38-50 mph around the time of the incident. The truck was reportedly empty.

Heavy Snow in SAN DIEGO COUNTY MOUNTAINS, CALIFORNIA
From 19-FEB-13 19:00:00 to 20-FEB-13 09:00:00 (PST-8)
Property damage: 0.00K
Crop damage: 0.00K
Reported by: Department of Highways

Ten inches of snow was measured at the Crestwood Pass near Interstate 8 over 12 hours ending 0700 PST on the 20th. Temporary closures occurred on Interstate 8 due to snow and accidents. Seven inches of snow was also reported in Julian by a spotter.

Heavy Snow in SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY MOUNTAINS, CALIFORNIA
From 19-FEB-13 18:00:00 to 20-FEB-13 09:00:00 (PST-8)
Property damage: 0.00K
Crop damage: 0.00K
Reported by: Trained Spotter

Big Bear ski resorts reported 16-17 inches of snow. A spotter in Big Bear Lake reported 16 inches of snow. A spotter in Big Bear City reported 11 inches of snow over 12 hours ending 0700 PST on the 20th. A spotter in Running Springs reported 12 inches of snow over the past 14 hours ending 0900 PST on the 20th. A spotter in Lucerne Valley reported 3-4 inches of snow, while another in Crestline reported 12 inches. Forest Falls and Garner Valley came in with 8 inches apiece.