Above-average heat to grip San Diego County through Friday

High pressure aloft will keep temperatures well above seasonal averages across San Diego County Tuesday and continuing through Friday, with the hottest conditions inland.

Daytime highs are expected to run about 10 degrees above average near the coast and 15 to 20 degrees above average in inland areas, according to the National Weather Service.

Highs Tuesday are expected to reach 71 to 76 near the coast, 78 to 82 inland, 80 to 85 in the western valleys, 84 to 89 near the foothills, 80 to 87 in the mountains and 94 to 97 in the deserts.

This month is on pace to be the hottest March on record in San Diego County, the NWS said.

Night and morning marine layer clouds and fog will continue along the coast and at times spread into the western valleys, potentially slowing morning clearing and slightly moderating temperatures near the coast.

A gradual cooling trend is expected next weekend as high pressure weakens, but highs next Sunday will still range 10 to 15 degrees above average near the coast and in inland valleys.