JACKSONVILLE, Fla. \u2013 We\u2019re waking up to mild temperatures this morning\u2014Riverside is starting at 69 degrees, St. Augustine at 72, and it\u2019s right around 68 in both Brunswick and Waycross.<\/p>\n
If you\u2019re stepping out today, expect the heat to ramp up quickly. <\/p>\n
Jacksonville\u2019s high will reach about 90 degrees, which is definitely warmer than the average for this time of year. This above-normal trend is likely to continue through the next several days, so it\u2019ll be highs in the 90s right through the holiday weekend.<\/p>\n
Overnight, we\u2019ll cool off just a bit to 72 degrees, but don\u2019t expect a big break from the heat until at least the middle of next week, when we finally slip back into the 80s.<\/p>\n
Afternoon showers and storm chances<\/p>\n
Now for the question everyone\u2019s asking\u2014will we see rain? <\/p>\n
There\u2019s about a 10% to 20% chance for showers and storms through the day, mainly during the afternoon as activity moves in from the Atlantic and up from the southwest. <\/p>\n
As we roll into the weekend, rain chances rise to around 40% each day.<\/p>\n
That means a few of us could see a quick storm, especially in the afternoons. The forecast isn\u2019t calling for heavy or widespread rain, but just enough that you\u2019ll want to check the radar before heading out for any weekend plans.<\/p>\n
If you\u2019re walking the dog or, like my neighbor, taking a cat for a stroll (yes, on a leash!), try to do it early and stick to the grass. By 1 p.m., we\u2019ll be close to 89 degrees, and that pavement heats up fast.<\/p>\n
The good news? Things have improved since earlier forecasts, so while you might catch a quick shower, it won\u2019t be a washout for your holiday.<\/p>\n
SnapJAX<\/p>\n