JACKSONVILLE, Fla. \u2013 If you\u2019re about to head out, I want to let you know we\u2019re starting the day with downright cold conditions across Jacksonville and the surrounding region.<\/p>\n
As of this morning, a Freeze Warning is in effect until 9 a.m. Temperatures are sitting at 28 degrees in Jacksonville proper and 29 degrees in Waycross, while the coastal areas are a little warmer in the mid to upper 30s.<\/p>\n
It feels even colder out there thanks to a bit of a breeze. Many folks are feeling temperatures closer to 34 degrees. So, if you haven\u2019t already, make sure you\u2019ve covered your plants, brought the pets in, and protected your pipes. I personally dealt with a burst pipe this week, and trust me, nobody wants to start their day that way!<\/p>\n
Rain expected as drought intensifies<\/p>\n
Let\u2019s talk rain\u2014because we really need it. Our Exact Track 4D radar and drought monitor both show the region is dealing with some harsh drought conditions. Parts of our area, especially from Lake City to Gainesville and heading up into southern Georgia, are experiencing severe to even extreme drought.<\/p>\n
The good news is rain is in the forecast. By Wednesday, we\u2019re expected to see a 60 percent chance of showers as a front moves through. If you\u2019ve noticed your yard or local parks looking extra dry, you\u2019re not alone. This rain can\u2019t come soon enough!<\/p>\n
Temperature trend shows warming ahead<\/p>\n
After this chilly start, things are looking up. Highs today are expected to reach 64 degrees, and we\u2019ll likely see 70 degrees on Wednesday before cooler air returns behind the rain. Expect Thursday and Friday mornings to dip into the 30s again, with a crisp 31-degree low possible by Friday.<\/p>\n
But don\u2019t worry\u2014the weekend is expected to bring plenty of sunshine, and next week looks even better with highs returning to the 70s! So hang in there; winter can\u2019t keep its grip on us much longer.<\/p>\n