JACKSONVILLE, Fla. \u2013 Let\u2019s get right into the big news: we\u2019re keeping a very close eye on Tropical Storm Melissa.<\/p>\n
Right now, Melissa is tracking through the Gulf, and while it\u2019s not certain if we\u2019ll see direct impacts in Jacksonville, it\u2019s something we need to watch together. There\u2019s still a lot of uncertainty with the official track. The storm\u2019s movement is slow, just 3 mph according to the latest 5 a.m. advisory.<\/p>\n
With warm water fueling it, Melissa is expected to intensify quickly. Forecast models are showing a strengthening storm, likely reaching Category 1, then possibly Category 2, 3, and even 4 by next week. I\u2019m especially concerned for our neighbors in Jamaica, Cuba, and Haiti, where there\u2019s a real risk of life-threatening mudslides, flooding, and damaging winds as the storm grows.<\/p>\n
I\u2019ll keep tracking Melissa with Exact Track 4D each day. Make sure you\u2019re staying up to date, as timing and impact projections may shift.<\/p>\n
Fire danger high as Jacksonville stays dry<\/p>\n
Meanwhile, things are bone dry in Jacksonville and across our area. We have low humidity and warm afternoons\u2014sounds great for a bonfire or some s\u2019mores, right? Actually, it\u2019s not the best time for that. These dry conditions combined with any breeze are a recipe for accidental fires.<\/p>\n
Temperatures start in the 40s and 50s early, but quickly hit the upper 70s. If you\u2019re smoking outside, please be extra careful about how you dispose of anything burning. Even dragging a chain behind your trailer can spark trouble on a day like this.<\/p>\n
Wind gusts are already in double digits and forecast to hit the 20s along the coast later. Even on calm days, unexpected wind can spread sparks. Let\u2019s keep each other safe by holding off on open flames for now.<\/p>\n
What to expect this week<\/p>\n
If your plans include Friday night football or outdoor activities, the weather is shaping up nicely. Skies stay clear, and the dry highs in the mid to upper 70s stick around for a few more days. Mornings will feel a bit chilly\u2014kids (and pets!) may want an extra layer early, but you\u2019ll be shedding those coats by midday.<\/p>\n
Rain chances are basically nonexistent until a small chance, just 20 to 30 percent, creeps in Sunday night into Monday. For now, the air stays dry, so any moisture is barely a factor in our forecast.<\/p>\n