Wednesday, April 22, 2026 — Jacksonville woke up under a hazy gray veil with temperatures near 64°F, as smoke from nearby wildfires cut visibility across the region. Patchy smoke is expected to stick around into the afternoon, with highs near 80 and breezy south winds helping shove the haze farther inland.
Afternoon Winds Pick Up
The Atlantic sea breeze will surge inland this afternoon, turning winds to the southeast and south with gusts up to about 16 mph. That should help carry some of the smoke away from the immediate beaches, while inland neighborhoods end up the warmest, with afternoon highs in the low to mid 80s. Coastal spots should stay a few degrees cooler.
Air Quality And Health
Smoke will knock air quality down a notch across parts of Jacksonville and nearby inland communities. People with asthma or other lung conditions, heart disease, older adults, and children should take it easy outside and limit strenuous activity. For the latest Air Quality Index before planning a workout, kids' practice, or yard work, check AirNow.
Beach Hazards And Fire Risk
Forecasters say elevated fire danger will hang on into Saturday because of critically low inland humidity, and dense smoke could pool overnight near active fires and trigger advisories. Along the coast, a moderate rip current risk is expected through Friday; swimmers are urged to stay near lifeguards and obey posted flags, according to the National Weather Service Jacksonville.
What To Do
Skip open burning or fireworks for now, secure loose yard debris, and shift sensitive outdoor plans indoors while the haze lingers. If smoke makes its way into your home, close windows, run the air conditioning on recirculation if you can, and follow local emergency updates for any new advisories.
