JACKSONVILLE, Fla. \u2013 Fire danger is a serious concern across Northeast Florida and South Georgia.<\/p>\n
Our Exact Track 4D radar and the GOES satellite imagery show several hot spots. These line up with fires that kicked up in Putnam County and Baker County. If you\u2019ve heard about these fires, you know this isn\u2019t something to take lightly.<\/p>\n
We\u2019re stuck in a major drought, with the latest drought monitor confirming up to a 10-inch rainfall deficit in our area. That means dry grass and brush everywhere, and when you add wind gusts like we\u2019re seeing\u2014up to 20 mph this morning in places like Gainesville and Lake City, and 18 mph in Jacksonville\u2014fires can start incredibly fast, sometimes from a single windborne ember.<\/p>\n
These fires are tough to contain, and even though we picked up some overnight rain, it barely made a dent in easing drought conditions.<\/p>\n
Rain moves out, cold settles in<\/p>\n
Early morning clouds are sticking around now that the rain has moved out. <\/p>\n
A cold front is clearing the area, and I\u2019m watching temperatures dip as the day goes on. Right now, we\u2019re in the 50s across Jacksonville and the coast, and you\u2019ll notice 40s up in south Georgia.<\/p>\n
Winds are shifting, and you\u2019ll really feel the chill by mid-morning. Temperatures are forecast to fall back into the 40s as we move past 7 a.m., and by noon, they may dip even lower.<\/p>\n
Tomorrow morning, expect even colder air. There\u2019s a freeze warning in effect until 9 a.m., so if you have sensitive plants or outdoor pets, take precautions tonight.<\/p>\n
Weekend forecast: brighter and warmer<\/p>\n
The good news? After tomorrow morning\u2019s freeze warning, conditions are expected to improve. <\/p>\n
Sunshine returns for the weekend, with highs climbing back into the 60s. <\/p>\n
Looking ahead to next week, we\u2019re likely to see temperatures reach the 70-degree mark, making for some pleasant weather!<\/p>\n