Saturday sun and fair fun expected<\/p>\n
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. \u2013 If you\u2019re looking for ways to keep the kids busy or planning early Sunday services, I\u2019ve got some good news from The Weather Authority. This is a big weekend for our community, with the Clay County Agricultural Fair in the spotlight.<\/p>\n
On Saturday, you can practically count on mostly sunny skies and very hot conditions. We\u2019ll be running well above average temperature-wise, so if you\u2019re headed out, grab the sunscreen and stay hydrated. No major rainmakers are on the horizon, making for a great fair day.<\/p>\n
Sunday showers possible, mostly afternoon<\/p>\n
I\u2019m tracking a shift Sunday. While most early-morning plans\u2014including sunrise or Easter services\u2014are expected to be dry, there\u2019s a 30 percent chance for showers to roll through the area between 1 and 4 p.m.<\/p>\n
These scattered showers are most likely in the western parts of our viewing area, which covers spots like Lake City and up toward Waycross. If you\u2019re going to the fair, keep an eye on the conditions, especially in the afternoon. Jacksonville proper, especially closer to the coast, is less likely to see much rain.<\/p>\n
Early outdoor events should have friendly weather, but anyone heading out for the afternoon should be ready for a quick shower.<\/p>\n
Rain needed for drought and smoke<\/p>\n
The Exact Track 4D radar and Drought Monitor are showing that western areas are dealing with the worst dry conditions and even some thick smoke near Waycross. I spotted several fire hot spots on our graphics, and while the overall threat of strong winds is low, any rain we get is much needed to help out those smoky, dry patches.<\/p>\n
Monday and Tuesday look to bring better chances for steadier showers across the area, which could go a long way toward easing both the drought and fire risk.<\/p>\n
Hot now, but a cool down is coming<\/p>\n
If you\u2019re feeling like summer has arrived early, you\u2019re not alone! We\u2019re forecast to see upper 80s\u2014almost hitting 90\u2014by Sunday afternoon. That\u2019s unseasonably warm, and even the overnight lows are holding in the 60s, well above our typical 54-degree average.<\/p>\n
Don\u2019t get used to the heat, though. Another weather system moving in next week brings us back down to the 70s and even some 60s by midweek, with higher rain chances Monday and Tuesday.<\/p>\n