Severe storms and fire risks<\/p>\n
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. \u2013 Hey folks, Katie Garner here from News4JAX and The Weather Authority. I want to start with the top story \u2014 we\u2019re currently under a Weather Authority Alert Day. Our Exact Track 4D radar has us watching a rough line of storms pushing into Jacksonville and our surrounding areas.<\/p>\n
There\u2019s an active tornado watch in place, but any warnings so far are well outside our viewing area. Still, it\u2019s a day for extra caution. The other big headline is our red flag warning. That means conditions are set up for fires to spread fast. The lightning threat is lessening, but it\u2019s still something to keep an eye on.<\/p>\n
I always want to highlight fire safety when the risks are high. If lightning does strike or a spark gets loose\u2014even a little from backyard burning\u2014it could escalate quickly. Our ground is so dry and these winds are not helping.<\/p>\n
Storms, winds, and a heat spike<\/p>\n
Here\u2019s what I see happening with this line of storms. As it trends southeast, it is expected to weaken\u2014which is some relief. Brantley County probably won\u2019t see any rain this time around, which is unfortunate if you\u2019ve been hoping for it.<\/p>\n
We\u2019re still dealing with a marginal to slight severe risk\u2014nothing to take lightly. The biggest impacts are likely to be those wind gusts, and they\u2019re forecast to be in the 30s range by 4 p.m. That means blowing debris, downed branches, and\u2014if fire breaks out\u2014extreme danger.<\/p>\n
Temperatures are soaring, too. We\u2019re way above average, with highs expected to reach 96 degrees today. That pattern of hot weather will stick around into the weekend, before we drop back to the 80s. Remember to check the pavement before walking your pups outside. Their paws can take a beating in these temps, so keep to the grass whenever you can.<\/p>\n
Rain chances remain through Monday, and we could see more storms, but I\u2019ll be tracking any changes for you as we go.<\/p>\n
Event updates and pet safety tips<\/p>\n
With fire danger so high, the fireworks show at the shrimp game is canceled for everyone\u2019s safety. I know it\u2019s a disappointment, but it\u2019s the right call. If you head out there, make sure to stay hydrated and enjoy the action on the field.<\/p>\n