JACKSONVILLE, Fla. \u2013 Right now, we\u2019re seeing fires burning in Brantley County and nearby parts of the Jacksonville area. <\/p>\n
I\u2019m watching minute by minute as the situation changes\u2014wind gusts aren\u2019t very strong, but even the slightest breeze can make a big difference when it comes to wildfires.<\/p>\n
The visibility near Waycross has really dropped because of all the smoke. That\u2019s definitely affecting the air quality, and as the smoke drifts west, it\u2019s something we need to keep a close eye on. The direction of the wind could easily change where that smoke and fire move next.<\/p>\n
These conditions are evolving fast, and The Weather Authority will continue tracking every update for you here on News4JAX.<\/p>\n
Rain offers hope for wildfire fight<\/p>\n
I know a lot of us are hoping for some relief, and I\u2019ve got some good news on that front. <\/p>\n
There\u2019s rain coming off the Atlantic, and I\u2019m thrilled to see rain chances going up\u2014especially on Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday.<\/p>\n
While I don\u2019t expect this rain to make a big dent in our drought, it\u2019s likely to help with the fire situation. <\/p>\n
Every bit of moisture can slow the spread and give crews a better chance of getting flames under control. My hope is we see these rain chances climb even more over the next few days.<\/p>\n
Drought remains despite rainfall<\/p>\n
Even with showers in the forecast, our region is still facing an extreme to exceptional drought. <\/p>\n
According to our Exact Track 4D radar and drought monitors, the rainfall deficit is still massive\u2014anywhere from 15 to more than 25 inches, depending on where you are in the Jacksonville area.<\/p>\n
The upcoming rain will help with the fires, but a bigger, longer-lasting change is needed to get us out of drought conditions.<\/p>\n
Spot smoke or fire? Share on SnapJAX<\/p>\n