JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – If you’re waking up in Jacksonville today, you’ve probably noticed the mornings are mild but dry.
I want to get right to it: our area is sitting in what’s classified right now as “extreme to exceptional drought”—that’s the highest on the scale, and it’s creeping into even more of our neighborhood.
We haven’t had the kind of rain we need.
Our rainfall deficit just keeps growing, and while I’ll have more numbers for you later today, what’s important right now is to understand that this presents very real fire dangers.
With the dry conditions, any spark or ignition source could start trouble—especially if wind picks up.
Warm and dry pattern continues
Stepping outside, you’ll feel temperatures in the 50s and 60s across Jacksonville, St. Augustine, Brunswick, and Waycross.
It feels nice, I know, and we’re looking at highs in the low 80s today and staying that way through Sunday.
Skies are clear and the Exact Track 4D radar isn’t showing any rain this morning.
If you’ve got outdoor plans—or even a little April Fool’s mischief—you’ve got the weather for it. Rain chances are just about 5%for most of us, with a slightly better chance west toward Lake City and Valdosta.
Most of us will likely stay dry for the next several days. It isn’t until Monday that we see a 40% chance for rain and some cooler air moving in.
Fire safety tips you need now
Until the rain does come, there are a few things I want you to remember.
Please be extra careful with anything that could start a fire. Put out your cigarettes in the right place, don’t park on dry grass because hot exhaust can set it off, and watch out when using power tools.
Most importantly—if there’s a burn ban in your area, make sure you follow it.
These are little things, but they can go a long way in keeping everyone safe while we wait for the weather to finally cooperate.
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