Jacksonville is starting Sunday clear, hot and already sticky, with temperatures around 81°F and humidity near 85% early this morning. The heat will build quickly, with an afternoon high near 96°F and a heat index that could reach 110°F.
A Heat Advisory is in effect from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday across Jacksonville and much of northeast Florida. According to the National Weather Service Jacksonville, mostly sunny skies will hold through early afternoon before showers and thunderstorms become possible after 3 p.m.
Storms Arrive Late Sunday
West winds will run 5 to 12 mph, with gusts up to 17 mph, as the hottest part of the day unfolds. Storm coverage should be greatest inland and along the Interstate 10 corridor, but Jacksonville could still see lightning, a brief heavy downpour or sudden outflow winds.
A few stronger storms may produce wind gusts of 35 to 45 mph, frequent lightning and locally heavy rain. Tonight, showers and thunderstorms remain possible before 11 p.m., followed by partly cloudy skies and a low near 80°F.
Dangerous Heat Lingers Into Midweek
Monday will bring another high near 96°F, with heat index values as high as 111°F and a 40% chance of afternoon storms. Tuesday could be the hottest day of the stretch, with a high near 98°F and a 50% chance of showers and thunderstorms after 2 p.m.
Storm chances increase Wednesday, when showers and thunderstorms are likely after 2 p.m. with a 60% chance of rain, then remain around 50% Thursday through Saturday as afternoon highs gradually ease from the mid-90s to about 93°F.
Plan Outdoor Time Carefully
Drink plenty of fluids, stay in air conditioning or shade when possible, and move strenuous outdoor work to early morning or evening. Lightweight, loose-fitting clothing can help, and older adults, children, people with health conditions and outdoor workers should be checked on during the advisory.
Beachgoers should also note a lower-end moderate rip current risk Sunday, with conditions expected to improve to a low risk beginning Monday. If thunder is heard, leave the water and head indoors; thunderstorms can produce dangerous lightning even when skies overhead still look mostly clear.
