Jacksonville faces severe drought and fire danger as heat wave continues, News4JAX meteorologist warns

Drought hits “exceptional” in Jacksonville

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – I would like you to know proper up entrance—our drought monitor is displaying a few of the most excessive circumstances we have seen recently. We’re within the “exceptional” class in some areas round Jacksonville and The Weather Authority’s Exact Track 4D radar simply is not choosing up any incoming rain.

Exceptional is the best drought degree we will expertise. It’s downright harmful, and it means we have to take that fire threat very severely. You may already be listening to reminders to preserve water; I like to recommend watering lawns solely as soon as per week for now. I’m cheering you on—most individuals are already pitching in to assist, which is nice!

If you are like me and love a fire pit, I am unable to stress this sufficient: let’s skip it for now. What begins as a comfy yard night time may flip right into a neighborhood emergency. The threat is actual, and we do not need any insurance coverage nightmares or worse.

Hot, dry climate sticks round

It’s one other stunning—and, sure, sizzling—day throughout our space. Right now, we’re anticipated to succeed in highs close to 89 levels, particularly round Jacksonville, St. Augustine, Brunswick, Waycross, and Macclenny. Even the coast is shortly warming up, with spots like Orange Park properly into the 80s.

I do know loads of of us are excited for the Jumbo Shrimp opening recreation tonight—I’m, too! Here’s the forecast: by recreation begin at 7 pm, principally clear skies and 81 levels, dropping to 75 by 9 pm and 71 round 11 pm It’s wanting nice for baseball, simply do not forget additional hydration in case you’re attending.

Checking the Exact Track 4D radar, we’re not anticipating any rain in the present day. Over the weekend, there is a slight likelihood—about 10 %—of a stray bathe drifting off the Atlantic, however most of us will keep dry. There was a little bit of fog this morning in very choose areas, so in case you noticed diminished visibility in your commute, that is in all probability what occurred.

Stay protected and beat the heat

This form of heat requires some TLC! Keep water helpful all day. Sunscreen is a should, even when it appears to be like partly cloudy. If you are ready, possibly deal with your self to a seashore half-day—however make it with loads of water breaks.

Fire security is on the high of my thoughts. As a lot as I like yard fires, it is simply not protected whereas drought ranges are this excessive. One spark can shortly turn into a a lot greater drawback.

And a fast notice for all of the households: count on the children dwelling to sunny skies and temperatures round 83 levels this afternoon.

If you notice something uncommon—clouds, solar canine, even your personal climate enjoyable—share it with SnapJAX at news4jax.com/snapjax/. I at all times love seeing your photographs and movies!