JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Good morning, Jacksonville! If you thought we’d be getting a taste of fall soon, think again. I’m seeing a big late September warm-up, and it’s going to feel every bit like summer out there.
Temperatures are forecast to hit 90 degrees, which is a bit above our typical average of 86. That’s not even the hottest part—the “feels like” temps are climbing close to 100 in the afternoon, especially if you’re away from the breeze.
If you’re planning to be outside, don’t be surprised if you feel like you’re in the triple digits. This stretch of heat is expected through the end of the week, before things start leveling off into the weekend. So keep those water bottles handy and maybe swap out that light jacket for some sunscreen instead.
Patchy morning fog slows commute
Let’s talk about your drive this morning. Patchy fog is rolling through from about 6 a.m. to 8 a.m., right during the busy commute. If you’re anywhere near Waycross, conditions may be tough with visibility dropping to almost nothing in spots—please use those low beam headlights!
The fog is expected to clear up by 9 or 10 a.m., but it’s something you’ll want to be extra aware of while on the road early. I’ll keep an eye on Exact Track 4D and let you know if conditions look like they’ll change.
Hurricane Gabrielle, not a local threat
I know many of you are watching the tropics. Hurricane Gabrielle is currently a Category 4 storm churning past Bermuda, but there’s no direct threat to us here in Jacksonville. I completely understand the concern, and that’s why I’m tracking it closely.
What you need to know: even though Gabrielle stays offshore, it’s increasing rip current risks and surf along our beaches. If you’re heading out to the coast, please use extra caution in the water—today’s rip current risk is high.
There are also two other tropical systems out there with a 30 to 80 percent chance of developing this week. It’s still early, but I’ll keep you posted if they look like more than passing showers.
Rain chance stays low, clear radar
On the bright side, rain isn’t likely to crash your plans today. We’re looking at a slim 20 percent chance, and any pop-up showers after noon are expected to be scattered and brief. Winds should remain pretty calm for most folks as well.
Got a cool sunrise shot of the fog, or maybe the way the sky looks before the heat kicks in? I’d love to see it—share your photos and videos with SnapJAX at news4jax.com/snapjax/.