Jacksonville Sizzles at 95 Before Late-Day Storms Slam City

Jacksonville is starting Monday around 78 degrees under mostly cloudy skies, but the afternoon will bring a sharp jump in heat. Temperatures are expected to reach 95 degrees, while the heat index could climb as high as 103. The steamy setup gives way to a chance of thunderstorms late in the day.

Storms Arrive Late Monday

Mostly sunny skies should dominate much of the day before showers and thunderstorms become possible after 4 p.m., with southwest winds around 8 mph. The National Weather Service Jacksonville office says isolated strong to marginally severe storms could develop across northeast Florida, particularly along and north of Interstate 10. The strongest storms may produce sudden wind gusts of 40 to 60 mph.

Jacksonville has a 30% chance of rain Monday, with new rainfall generally expected to stay below a tenth of an inch. Tonight, the rain chance rises to 50%, and some locations could pick up a quarter-inch to half-inch from slow-moving showers and storms. Lightning, brief heavy rain and abrupt wind shifts will be the main concerns for evening plans.

Wet Midweek Pattern Takes Over

Storm chances increase Tuesday and Wednesday as highs settle near 91 and 90 degrees, respectively. Tuesday afternoon carries a 70% chance of showers and thunderstorms, while Wednesday's activity is most likely from roughly 2 p.m. through the late afternoon. Downpours could be heavy enough to create localized flooding in urban areas and places with poor drainage.

Beachgoers Face Rip Current Risk

At area beaches, rip current risk is expected to increase from low in the morning to moderate Monday afternoon and remain moderate through Wednesday. Surf should stay relatively low at about 1 to 2 feet, but swimmers should still use caution and follow posted beach flags. Outside of storms, winds and seas are expected to remain light.

Thursday through Sunday stays warm and unsettled, with highs generally between 91 and 92 degrees and daily chances for afternoon showers and thunderstorms. Rain chances range from about 40% to 60% through the weekend, while heat index values remain above 100 but are not expected to reach heat advisory criteria. No watches or warnings are posted for Jacksonville, but residents should move indoors when thunder is heard and avoid driving through water-covered roads.