Extreme heat expected across Jacksonville and North Florida
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – News4JAX viewers are in for a hot stretch, with temperatures already in the 70s and 80s during the morning and expected to reach 99 degrees by 4 p.m. today. According to The Weather Authority’s meteorologist Katie Garner, “The heat’s the problem today.” The heat index—or the “feels like” temperature—will likely push well into the hundreds, making outdoor activities potentially risky.
A heat advisory has been issued from 12 p.m. to 7 p.m. Hydration is especially important if you’re spending any time outside. Take precautions if heading out to walk your dog; experts recommend sticking to the grass, as pavement temperatures can become dangerously hot for paws.
Garner adds, “You’re going to reach 99 by about 4 o’clock…feeling like you’re in the hundreds.” She advises watching for signs of dehydration and planning any outdoor events early or late in the day to beat the highest heat.
Sea turtle hatchlings face new threat from bright beach lights
While the heat is putting people on alert, it’s also affecting the coastal environment in unexpected ways. A recent turtle release event highlighted a growing problem: bright construction and artificial lights along the beach at night are confusing baby sea turtles. Instead of heading to the ocean, many hatchlings turn toward the lights, putting their survival at risk.
During her segment, News4JAX’s meteorologist explained, “If you’re actually standing on the beach at night and you see those construction lights, I mean, they’re like a beacon for those turtles to just go the wrong way, basically.” The turtles are already facing tough odds, and artificial lighting only makes it harder for them to reach the safety of the water.
Those who want to learn more about how bright the lights appear from a turtle’s perspective can find photos posted on the News4JAX website. If you spot anything affecting wildlife on our local shores, share your story or photo through SnapJAX.
While the exact science behind turtle disorientation wasn’t covered in detail, the community is asked to stay aware and do what they can to reduce unnecessary lighting on beachfront property.
What’s ahead: Jacksonville’s weeklong outlook
Today’s heat isn’t going anywhere just yet. “Over the next three days, not much is changing,” says Katie Garner. Temperatures are forecast to hover in the upper 90s, with “mostly clear skies tonight, 78, and then tomorrow 99 degrees.” Rain chances are low for now, but by midweek showers are expected to return, bringing highs back down to the mid-90s—a change many will likely welcome, even if the difference is only a few degrees.
If you’re planning time on the water, be aware that the rip current risk is moderate along the First Coast. Always check the latest forecast and beach safety alerts before heading out.
Want a custom forecast for your plans this week? Reach out to The Weather Authority team at News4JAX for updates—your best resource for staying ahead of the weather in Jacksonville.