JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – We are in the heart of hurricane season, and I have my eye on a new system spinning up in the Atlantic.
Right now, we’re tracking Tropical Depression Seven out in the open waters. Winds are holding around 35 mph, placing it firmly in the tropical depression category for now.
The latest forecast models show it staying east of the Leeward Islands and Puerto Rico before making a northward turn.
With each update, we keep close tabs, as the path can always shift. If the depression gains strength today, it would become Tropical Storm Gabrielle.
There’s also a chance it could hit Category 1 hurricane status by Sunday or Monday.
Most of the model tracks—at this point—send it up toward Bermuda, but it’s still too early for any guarantees.
There’s even another area coming off the African coast we’re keeping watch on, so the tropics are certainly busy!
Sunny, mild stretch
Here at home, it’s a beautiful morning. I’ve been out checking the numbers: we’re starting in the low 60s for Jacksonville, low 70s in Mayport, and even the 50s out in Macclenny.
There’s barely a breeze to speak of—something I know everyone can appreciate after those gusty days recently.
We’ll warm up quickly, reaching the 80s by 11 a.m. and close to 90 as the kids start heading home from school.
Rain chances are really low for us today—just a 5% to 10% shot at a quick, pop-up shower. Most of central and south Florida will see a little more action, but up here, the sunshine is sticking around.
Our Exact Track 4D radar shows dry air is dominating, so even as some clouds to build in the afternoon, your outdoor plans look safe. Winds may gust into the teens, but that’s a big drop from where we’ve been.
Beach day? You’re looking at low 80s along the sand and in the water.
Keep in mind, there’s a moderate rip current risk today, so swim smart and stay safe.
The playground forecast has us up to 88 by the afternoon—not bad for September!
Flood advisory and looking ahead
We still have a coastal flood advisory in place, mostly driven by the high tides along the St. Johns River and its tributaries.
Folks who live along those spots know what to do, as it’s something we’ve been dealing with for a while now.
Looking to the rest of this week, it’s more of the same: highs in the 80s, low rain chances, and plenty of sunshine through at least Friday.
By the weekend, rain chances go up just a touch. No washouts in the forecast, but if you’ve got a big outdoor event, keep an eye—and maybe your phone—on the sky.
If you spot lightning, it’s best to be prepared and plan accordingly.
And as always, if you catch any interesting weather out there, share your photos with us! SnapJAX is open at news4jax.com/snapjax.