JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – There’s no doubt it’s a seriously cold start to your day in Jacksonville. As you step outside, bundle up: we’ve got a freeze warning in place, and you’ll feel it the minute that cold wind hits your face!
Early this morning, we were sitting at 33 degrees, and with the wind, it feels even colder — more like the low to mid 20s. If you’re in areas up toward Georgia, it’s likely even chillier.
Remember to keep an eye on your car this morning. Sensors and tire pressures can go off or change quickly with all this cold.
Wind chills and fire risk: Stay smart
These wind chills are nothing to mess with. Gusts along the coast are coming in around 20 mph, with steady breezes inland too.
It’s not our normal Florida sweater weather — this is true winter!
I know a lot of folks are thinking about New Year’s Eve celebrations, so here’s another word of caution: Because we’re staying dry and windy, the fire risk is up across much of our area.
This means fireworks can get out of hand in an instant.
I really encourage you to let the professionals handle things tonight. Nobody wants to be the one who started a fire!
Weekend rain expected: Relief ahead
Here’s some good news: While the Gulf is keeping us dry now, we are forecasting a change by the end of the week.
A low-pressure system is expected to move in starting Friday, bringing some much-needed rain, especially on Saturday.
Only spotty showers are expected at first, then heavier bands into Saturday night.
If you’re making weekend plans or heading to the Jags game Sunday, rain chances drop back to about 20% by then, so things should improve.
This rain should help ease the drought monitor’s dry conditions across our area — and I know the lawns will appreciate it!
Stay warm, stay safe
Dress in layers, look out for icy spots, and keep your furry friends inside until it warms up a bit.
A quick reminder: If you snap any frosty photos or unique weather moments, I’d love to see them! Share your pics with SnapJAX at https://www.news4jax.com/snapjax/.
For all the latest updates — and to stay ahead of changing conditions — keep checking News4JAX.com and Exact Track 4D.