JACKSONVILLE, Fla. \u2013 Mother Nature is really packing a punch today in Jacksonville. This is the heaviest day of rain and storms you\u2019re going to see all week.<\/p>\n
While we need every drop, it\u2019s all coming at once, and that means a risk for localized flooding. With so much rain falling fast, the ground just can\u2019t soak it up quickly enough.<\/p>\n
My best advice? Grab your raincoat before you step out the door. Even though it may look calm right now, you definitely do not want to get caught later!<\/p>\n
If you\u2019re heading out, keep an eye on where you walk, drive, and park. The Exact Track 4D radar is showing things are quiet first thing this morning, but that\u2019s about to change.<\/p>\n
What to expect from these storms<\/p>\n
Showers and storms are forecast to become widespread just after 1 p.m., really picking up after 2 p.m. today. Expect some serious wind gusts in the mix\u2014these could reach 40 mph to 60 mph this afternoon.<\/p>\n
If you\u2019re near Jacksonville, St. Augustine, or anywhere in between, rain totals could land anywhere from a half an inch up to 3 inches before the day is done.<\/p>\n
For anyone worried about the bigger stuff, the National Weather Service says there\u2019s no threat from hail or tornadoes with this system. That\u2019s a little piece of good news!<\/p>\n
Just remember: heavy rain and those strong gusts can still bring down power lines and tree limbs, so use caution out there.<\/p>\n
Download the News4JAX app for instant weather alerts as the rain moves in through tonight and into Wednesday morning.<\/p>\n
Looking ahead: clearing skies and summer sun<\/p>\n
The good news is that the heavy stuff doesn\u2019t stick around long. By Wednesday night, Thursday, and Friday, things clear out a lot, and rain chances start to taper off.<\/p>\n
You\u2019ll notice a little cool down\u2014temperatures drop to the 70s on Wednesday, then bounce back into the 80s through Friday and right into the weekend.<\/p>\n
If you love the beach, plan for sunshine and warmer temps by Saturday and Sunday. Just don\u2019t forget the sunscreen!<\/p>\n
Even though it\u2019s only the second day of hurricane season, there\u2019s nothing brewing in the Atlantic or The Gulf for us right now.<\/p>\n
One more tip: If you\u2019re walking the dog, try to do it before noon if you want to stay dry\u2014wet fur is no one\u2019s favorite!<\/p>\n