Hot stretch rolls in this weekend
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Hi, it’s Katie Garner with The Weather Authority, and I want to get you prepped for the hottest weather so far this spring.
If you step outside in Jacksonville, St. Augustine, Brunswick, Waycross, or even Macclenny, it’s going to feel pretty comfortable early in the day, with temperatures in the 50s and 60s.
But by the afternoon, we’re shooting up to the low and mid-90s—well above our usual high temperatures around 80 degrees. That pattern looks like it’ll stick with us through Sunday!
If you’re planning anything outdoors, make sure you have plenty of water and sunscreen. The sun will be out most of the time, and there’s barely a hint of rain in the picture until next week.
Extreme drought and fire alert
Here’s something I’m really concerned about: our drought monitor is lighting up with “extreme” to “exceptional” conditions nearly everywhere in our area. Jacksonville and surrounding towns are all facing a rainfall deficit of 20 to 25 inches or more.
That dry streak doesn’t just mean brown lawns—it also means a higher risk of fire. I want to remind you to keep vehicles off dry grass, watch for sparks if you’re using power tools or hauling trailers, and never toss cigarette butts outside.
Maps on Exact Track 4D are showing multiple hotspots for fire and smoke, so every bit of safety counts.
Minimal rain and conserving water
There isn’t much relief in sight. As of now, rain chances are holding steady at about 10 percent Sunday into Monday, but that could change. I’m watching the models closely and will update my forecast if new data suggests a better shot at rain.
Because the ground is so dry, I’m urging everyone to water lawns only once a week—just enough to keep things alive without wasting water. Every effort helps as we all get through this stretch together.
Stay updated and share your photos
I’ll keep you posted on any changes, and don’t forget—if you catch any dramatic weather or fire photos, send them to SnapJAX at https://www.news4jax.com/snapjax/. Your pictures help keep the whole community informed.