Saturday, April 18, Jacksonville started the weekend with clear skies and a comfortable morning in the mid 60s, but inland neighborhoods are expected to flirt with near-record warmth this afternoon as highs climb close to 90°F. A light south wind will let a Gulf sea breeze drift inland, keeping beaches and the immediate coast a few degrees cooler. Patchy morning fog is expected inland through the weekend, and the ongoing dry stretch is stressing vegetation across the region.
Afternoon Heat And Onshore Winds
Mostly sunny skies will help push highs near 90°F for inland areas, with upper 80s along the St. Johns and nearby coastal neighborhoods, while beaches should stay in the mid 80s. South winds of about 3 to 10 mph this afternoon will support the sea breeze, and localized gusts into the mid teens are possible where sea breezes collide. Plan outdoor activity early or later in the day, since the hottest stretch will be mid to late afternoon.
Foggy Mornings And Beach Conditions
Calmer overnight winds and lingering low level humidity mean patchy inland fog is possible each morning, especially west of I-95, so drivers may want to allow a little extra time for early commutes. Easterly swells around 2 to 2.5 feet and short periods will keep a moderate rip current risk in place at area beaches today, and small craft should be ready for choppy conditions. A cold front arriving late Sunday into Sunday night will briefly shift winds and nudge rain chances, but beach hazards could return if a strong northeast surge sets up early next week.
Fire Weather Watch Monday
A Fire Weather Watch is in effect for Monday, April 20, from roughly 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. across inland parts of Northeast Florida, including western Duval, western Nassau and Clay counties, along with nearby Echols County, Georgia. Forecasts call for northeast winds around 15 to 20 mph with gusts near 25 to 30 mph and afternoon relative humidity levels dropping into the teens and low 20s, a combination that could allow fires to spread quickly if one starts. Officials advise postponing any outdoor burning and following local burn restrictions, and upgrades to Red Flag Warnings are possible, according to National Weather Service Jacksonville.
What To Do
Keep water and shade handy, avoid burning yard debris, and check beach flags before heading into the surf. This note updates our earlier coverage; see our April 15 forecast for background on the heat and morning fog.
