JACKSONVILLE, Fla. \u2013 I don\u2019t know about you, but this past weekend felt like someone turned Florida into a giant sauna. By 8 in the morning at the Gate River Run, folks were already sweating\u2014and I could feel it too.<\/p>\n
Temperatures started off in the high 60s across Jacksonville, even hitting 70 before sunrise in Gainesville.<\/p>\n
Across the board, we are seeing temps in the mid to upper 60s before breakfast, with highs expected to climb near 90. If you\u2019re itching for a break from winter, Mother Nature is definitely delivering some heat this week.<\/p>\n
I know the time change had us all dragging, but if you\u2019re heading out for a jog, recess, or running errands, be sure to stay hydrated\u2014I\u2019ll remind myself to put down the Diet Coke and pick up some water, too!<\/p>\n
Drought continues for Jacksonville area<\/p>\n
Now, let\u2019s talk about what\u2019s happening on the ground. Even though we picked up some rain yesterday, it honestly didn\u2019t make a dent. <\/p>\n
Based on the latest drought monitor, Southeast Georgia is now under extreme drought, and Jacksonville is running dry too.<\/p>\n
I get emails from viewers asking if recent showers helped, and I wish I could say yes. Right now, we\u2019ve got to be mindful about conserving water. The ground and gardens need every drop.<\/p>\n
On a positive note, the fire and smoke risk remains low, so I\u2019m not tracking any major smoke issues in our area right now.<\/p>\n
Rain expected midweek and a cooldown<\/p>\n
Let\u2019s take a peek at what\u2019s next. Our Exact Track 4D radar is showing a slim chance\u2014about 10 to 30 percent\u2014of pop-up rain through today, with most of the activity north of us. By Wednesday and especially Thursday, I\u2019m forecasting better rain chances with some heavier showers possible.<\/p>\n
Thursday\u2019s looking like our best shot with a 50% chance of some much-needed rain. It won\u2019t be a washout, but any little pop-up downpour will help chip away at these dry conditions.<\/p>\n
After that, it\u2019s looking like we\u2019ll finally catch a break from the heat. Temperatures are forecast to dip back into the 70s for Friday and Saturday, then around 80 by Sunday. So, keep that hope alive for the end of the week!<\/p>\n
Stay safe and share your weather moments<\/p>\n
My advice? Keep cool, take it easy in the afternoons, and don\u2019t forget to check the playground and gardening forecasts before heading outside. <\/p>\n