Jacksonville is starting Monday hot and humid, with temperatures around 80 degrees early and mostly sunny skies expected through the morning. By afternoon, the heat will climb toward 96 degrees, while a round of thunderstorms could put a wet and noisy dent in outdoor plans.
A Heat Advisory is in effect from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday, with heat index values reaching as high as 112 degrees across Northeast Florida. The National Weather Service in Jacksonville is urging residents to drink plenty of fluids, stay in air conditioning when possible and avoid strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day.
Storms Arrive After Lunch
Showers and thunderstorms have a 50% chance of developing after 1 p.m., with the greatest risk continuing through the afternoon and early evening. West winds will run 8 to 12 mph, with gusts up to 17 mph, and stronger storms could bring frequent lightning, brief heavy rain and locally gusty winds.
Rain chances ease somewhat Monday night, but a few showers and thunderstorms remain possible before 9 p.m. Skies should turn partly cloudy afterward, with temperatures holding near 79 degrees and the heat index still reaching about 103.
Another Dangerous Heat Day Tuesday
Tuesday brings another high near 96 degrees, with heat index values potentially reaching 110. Storm chances rise to 60% after 2 p.m., and some storms could produce wind gusts of 40 to 60 mph, frequent lightning and downpours that drop as much as three-quarters of an inch of rain.
The heat stays stubborn through Thursday and Friday, with highs in the mid to upper 90s and afternoon storm chances generally between 20% and 50%. Weekend temperatures ease slightly to around 94 degrees, but scattered afternoon and evening thunderstorms are expected to remain part of the forecast.
Plan Around The Heat
People working or exercising outdoors should shift strenuous activity to early morning or evening, take frequent breaks in shade or air conditioning and wear loose, lightweight clothing. Never leave children or pets in a parked vehicle, and move indoors immediately when thunder is heard.
