JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – This is one of those forecasts that will have you digging out your warmest coat and giving your pets some extra cozy time indoors. A Freeze Warning is in effect for the Jacksonville area, and it’s expected to last through 9 a.m. Tuesday.
Tonight, temperatures are forecast to tumble into the 20s. Wind chills? Well, let’s just say they’ll make you want to hit snooze and stay bundled up a little longer. Both Wednesday and Thursday mornings are also expected to bring lows well below freezing, so you’ll definitely want to check on your pets, your plants, and yes—your pipes, too.
While we’ll see high temperatures try to reach the 50s during the day, those frosty mornings are likely to stick around at least through Friday. Looking toward the weekend, don’t expect much of a warmup just yet.
Showers early, then clearing skies
This morning started wet, with a line of showers moving through Jacksonville and surrounding areas, making for some tricky driving around 501 Riverside and near the airport. If you were out early, roads were slick and visibility was down, but the good news is those showers are expected to clear out by 8 a.m.
After this front moves through, things dry out nicely. You can expect a drier rest of the week, with only a slight chance of rain after today. It’s the kind of snap in the weather that makes you almost forget you were sweating on the beach just a couple days ago!
Drought still gripping the region
While the cold and wind take center stage, the long-term story in our area is the worsening drought. The latest update from our Exact Track 4D drought monitor shows extreme drought creeping into Georgia, and North Florida stuck in severe to moderate drought conditions. With only a sprinkle of rain in the forecast, don’t expect much improvement in our drought situation this week.
With this kind of forecast, protecting your family and furry friends is key. Bring pets inside, cover any delicate plants, and insulate your pipes. And if you’re heading out to walk the dog, waiting until after sunrise means it’ll be a little less damp and a little more sunny.
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