Jacksonville, Fl – After a stretch of heavy rain, inland areas of northeast and north central Florida are flipping the script—fast. A Heat Advisory is now in effect as sunshine takes the wheel and steam-bath conditions move in.
Sizzling forecast temperatures will push into the mid-90s, but the heat index—how it actually feels—will be far worse. Between 12 PM and 6 PM, expect “feels-like” temps to hover between 108° and 110°F. That’s flirting with dangerous territory, especially for outdoor workers, kids, and the elderly.
What’s causing the heat spike? Drier air aloft is snuffing out the rain that had been moderating daytime highs. With fewer clouds and showers, the sun has free rein to roast the region. This pattern holds through the weekend, but by midweek, thunderstorms should return to help trim the heat.
What is a Heat Advisory, Exactly?
Here in Florida, a Heat Advisory is issued when the heat index is forecast to exceed 108°F—a level where heat-related illnesses become far more likely.
But this threshold isn’t universal. In Fairbanks, Alaska, they just issued their first-ever Heat Advisory on June 2, triggered at just 85°F. Parts of far northern Alaska can warrant an alert at just 75°F. What’s extreme is relative to what your body is used to—and up there, even modest heat can cause major strain.
Heat Safety Tips
- Take breaks: OSHA recommends resting frequently in shaded or air-conditioned spaces.
- Stay hydrated: Water is your best friend in this kind of heat—don’t wait to feel thirsty.
- Watch out for heat stress: If someone looks flushed, dizzy, or confused, move them to shade and cool them down fast.