Finally, some drought relief is coming<\/p>\n
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. \u2013 We\u2019ve been talking nonstop about the drought here in Northeast Florida and South Georgia, and it looks like some big changes are finally headed our way. We are currently in what\u2019s classified as extreme to exceptional drought, and over the last year, we\u2019ve really built up a huge rainfall deficit.<\/p>\n
This week brings some good news: much-needed showers are expected to develop over the next few days. While this round won\u2019t be enough to eliminate the drought entirely, it\u2019s certainly a step in the right direction. If you\u2019ve been cutting back on watering your lawn or garden, Mother Nature is about to give you a hand.<\/p>\n
Rain is a great thing for us right now. We need it badly, and not only will it start to chip away at our rainfall deficit, but it\u2019ll also help with fire and smoke concerns that have been hanging over us lately.<\/p>\n
Here\u2019s when to expect the rain<\/p>\n
Let\u2019s talk about the Exact Track 4D radar outlook. It might be dry right now, but if you step outside later today, keep your umbrella close. Light rain is expected to start up by late morning, intensifying in Georgia around noon, then moving south into Jacksonville later in the afternoon and evening.<\/p>\n
A lot of the heavier rain is likely to come in overnight, stretching into Tuesday and lingering through Wednesday and Thursday. We\u2019ll see more widespread showers for much of the week, but the rain chance drops down as we head into the weekend. Saturday and Sunday are forecast to be drier, so if you\u2019ve got outdoor plans, keep an eye on the forecast just in case anything shifts.<\/p>\n
Temperatures will stay below average thanks to a cold front, with highs in the low 70s through Thursday before gradually warming back into the upper 70s. Winds will also be picking up, with gusts already showing up in the 20 to 30 mph range in some areas.<\/p>\n
As always, the timing of these storms could change. That\u2019s how weather works, right? So keep checking back for the latest updates from The Weather Authority.<\/p>\n
Events and plans adjust to the weather<\/p>\n
The Clay County Agricultural Fair is underway this week. If you\u2019re heading out, plan for some showers here and there, but it\u2019s not going to be a total washout. There\u2019s plenty to do indoors if the rain comes down.<\/p>\n
Gardeners can look forward to less time hauling hoses, as rain chances are running high through Thursday and will help refresh lawns and gardens. With only one watering day allowed per week due to drought restrictions, these showers are a big help.<\/p>\n