JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Jacksonville is heading straight into a hot stretch — highs are expected to climb into the low to mid 90s for several days, and honestly, it’s going to feel even hotter out there.
This morning started mild, in the upper 50s and 60s, but that won’t last long.
By 3 p.m., Exact Track 4D shows we should reach 91 degrees or more, topping out near 93 and even 95 in some spots through Thursday.
If you’re outdoors for work, I really want you to remember: Take breaks about every 20 minutes and keep hydrating. It doesn’t take much to start feeling the heat, especially with how dry it is right now.
Fire weather is definitely a concern. With dry wind gusts picking up and no rain so far this week, the risk is higher. Please, don’t plan any outdoor burning — it’s just too dangerous until we get some moisture back into the ground.
Drought worsens, but rain on the way
I know it feels like we’ve been waiting forever for rain. The drought monitor hasn’t budged, with extreme dryness mapped across our area, especially west of Jacksonville.
The good news? Rain chances are increasing as we close out the week. Exact Track 4D has us at about a 30% chance for a shower by Thursday, with much better chances for widespread rain moving in Friday, Saturday, and into Sunday and Monday.
Right now, those rain chances are expected to bump up to 50% or 60% for parts of the weekend — but I always say, have a plan B ready if you’re scheduling anything outdoors. We really need this rain to help ease fire dangers and cool us down.
Lows overnight are looking to stay warm, mostly in the 60s and low 70s. Even with rain, daytime highs will keep running above average, so don’t expect much relief from the heat just yet.
Tips for pets and outdoor safety
I can’t say this enough — this weather is especially tough for our furry friends. My dog just got his summer ‘do, but even with a trim, it’s still super easy for paws to burn on hot sidewalks or pavement by midday.
If you can, walk your dogs early in the morning or later in the evening when everything’s cooled off a little. And always try to stick to grass, not asphalt, since that gets dangerously hot.
I know some people use dog boots, but you don’t have to go that far — just avoid the hottest parts of the day.
Want to share how your pets are beating the heat? We’d love to see your photos or videos. Upload them on SnapJAX, and maybe you’ll see your best friend on-air!
7-day outlook: Stay alert for changes
It’s going to stay hot and sticky for at least the next five days, with highs running well above normal and lows not dipping very far overnight.
Temperatures may ease back a bit as rain becomes more likely.