JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Our Friday kicked off much milder than recent mornings, with temperatures around 40 degrees and a “feels like” temp of 37 at the airport. Expect a high near 70 today—and it’s set to get even warmer Saturday, with highs forecast at 72 degrees.
The big story is a cold front and low-pressure system moving in from the Gulf, likely bringing storms Saturday.
Exact Track 4D radar shows things are quiet for now, but that’s expected to change starting around noon tomorrow. The heaviest downpours and storms are forecast from about 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday, with lingering showers possible until midnight. Not every storm will be severe, but some could pack a punch, so keep your phones handy for weather alerts.
Impacts for travel and the Jags game
This is shaping up to be a high-travel weekend, as so many folks wrap up their holiday break. If you’re hitting the roads, the best travel window should be Friday or after storms clear late Saturday night. Sunday brings a big highlight: The Jags are set to play at 1 p.m., and weather conditions look great for fans—partly cloudy skies and a temperature around 64 degrees.
After the front passes, we’ll be right back into comfortable winter temps to start next week, with highs forecast in the 70s Monday and Tuesday. So while Saturday brings some unsettled weather, Sunday and beyond are looking mild and dry.
Rain could ease drought concerns
Many of you have noticed the dry conditions lately—and you’re right. The latest drought monitor shows moderate to severe drought across parts of our area. The rain expected Saturday is desperately needed and could go a long way in easing those dry spots. While we’re not expecting drought-busting rainfall from this one event, every bit helps.
Rain chance is pegged at 50 percent for Saturday and drops to 20 percent Sunday. Keep an umbrella close for those plans, but the second half of the weekend is trending much better.
Outdoor plans: when to head out
If you’re planning tee time or a dog walk, today is your best bet for a mild and dry stretch. Temperatures in the morning start in the upper 30s and rise through the 60s and into the 70s this afternoon. After tonight’s low near 51, Saturday’s storms will bring showers and possible thunderstorms—so plan your outdoor time around that, especially from midday onward.
SnapJAX your weather photos and videos during this wild weekend—head over to news4jax.com/snapjax/ to share what you’re seeing!