JACKSONVILLE, Fla. \u2013 This Monday started off especially foggy across Jacksonville and our neighboring communities.<\/p>\n
Driving in before sunrise, I couldn\u2019t see much more than a few feet ahead. The river completely disappeared in the haze!<\/p>\n
Based on Exact Track 4D radar and firsthand observations, we have a dense fog advisory this morning for just about everyone. <\/p>\n
Visibility is way down in spots like Palatka, Orange Park, Mayport, Jacksonville, Starke, and Gainesville. <\/p>\n
If you\u2019re getting the kids to the bus stop or heading out for work, please use your low beams and give yourself extra time. <\/p>\n
Mondays are tough enough\u2014no need to rush when you can\u2019t see what\u2019s ahead.<\/p>\n
Extreme drought and high fire danger<\/p>\n
Once the fog lifts, our main concern quickly shifts to drought and fire risk.<\/p>\n
We\u2019re currently facing a severe to extreme drought. <\/p>\n
You\u2019ll notice from Exact Track 4D and the red zones on our drought monitor that our entire area is in a significant rain deficit. It\u2019s been bone dry lately, with no real soaking rain for weeks.<\/p>\n
That dryness, paired with increasing winds\u2014gusts are expected to reach the teens and even low 20s by this afternoon\u2014means fire danger is on the rise. <\/p>\n
Even a small spark from a cigarette or outdoor grill could set off a quick-moving brush fire. <\/p>\n
If you enjoy a smoke outdoors, please make sure those butts go in the right spot. <\/p>\n
Our satellite data is showing a few hot spots, but at the moment, there\u2019s no large-scale smoke detected.<\/p>\n
For everyone who loves their lawn or garden, I get it\u2014we all want that landscape of the month! Just remember, water with care right now and conserve where you can.<\/p>\n
Warmer weather, few chances for rain<\/p>\n
So, what\u2019s ahead as we move into the week?<\/p>\n
Temperatures are expected to warm up nicely. Today will reach a high of 75 degrees under mostly clear skies, with tonight\u2019s low around 55. <\/p>\n
Tuesday looks similar with a high of 76. <\/p>\n
By Wednesday and Thursday, we\u2019ll be in the 80 to 83 degree range\u2014perfect for those who love warmer days!<\/p>\n
Morning lows will stay above the average of 48, landing in the upper 50s and low 60s most mornings. <\/p>\n
As for rain, the outlook is mostly dry. We could see a couple of light showers Wednesday and Thursday\u2014nothing major, but any moisture would help. <\/p>\n
Looking out over the next seven days, the warm stretch continues with only small chances for rain.<\/p>\n