JACKSONVILLE, Fla. \u2013 I know we\u2019ve all been looking for some good news when it comes to our dry conditions, and I\u2019ve got it for you today. <\/p>\n
While the weekend may start out a bit wet, the rain headed our way is expected to bring some real relief after weeks of severe to extreme drought.<\/p>\n
By this time tomorrow, our Exact Track 4D radar is likely to be lighting up with showers and thunderstorms moving in overnight and into Friday. <\/p>\n
This is the kind of rain we need to chip away at those long-standing drought conditions that have left our lawns and landscapes thirsty. I\u2019ll be keeping a close watch as those storms come through.<\/p>\n
The drought has reached some pretty severe levels, and while staying dry has its perks for outdoor plans, this rainfall is forecast to be very beneficial for our area.<\/p>\n
Warm temperatures, gusty winds today<\/p>\n
If you\u2019re heading out today, you\u2019ll notice it feels much milder than it has lately. Early morning temperatures are in the 40s and 50s, but highs are forecast to climb into the upper 70s and even low 80s by this afternoon.<\/p>\n
For Jacksonville, Green Cove Springs, Orange Park, and Palatka, you can expect some fantastic weather for lunch or any outdoor plans. Along the coast, temperatures will be a little cooler, hanging closer to 70.<\/p>\n
Winds are something to keep an eye on. While they\u2019ll start off pretty calm, gusts are forecast to build through the day, reaching up to 20 to 30 mph, and possibly close to 40 mph around southern Georgia and Macclenny. <\/p>\n
This could make it easier for anything loose outside to blow around, and with things so dry, it\u2019s wise to be extra cautious if you see smoke or small fires.<\/p>\n
7-day forecast: Sunshine and air quality updates<\/p>\n
Once tomorrow\u2019s rain moves out, expect mostly sunny skies and warm temperatures to return. <\/p>\n
Highs should stay in the upper 70s to low 80s for the next several days, and the weekend is looking pretty nice. <\/p>\n
We could see another shower or two by Tuesday, but overall, a warmer and more pleasant pattern is setting up.<\/p>\n
As for air quality, it\u2019s looking just fine for almost everyone, with a slight blip around Palm Coast due to some smoke, but nothing widespread at this time.<\/p>\n
Visibility is not expected to be an issue.<\/p>\n