JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – It’s a clear and sunny morning in Jacksonville, but don’t be fooled—stormy weather is likely to roll in by this afternoon.
After a drier stretch, the area is forecast to see more pronounced pop-up showers and thunderstorms starting around 1 p.m. and continuing through the afternoon and evening, especially for southern counties and towns, including Palm Coast, Palatka, St. Augustine, Orange Park, and up into Jacksonville and some beaches.
The forecast high sits at 93 to 95 degrees—just above average—but with humidity pushing “feels like” temperatures well into the triple digits, it’s expected to feel much hotter.
Those with outdoor plans, particularly kids involved in after-school activities, should take extra precautions.
Stay hydrated, take breaks in air conditioning and remember to replenish electrolytes, especially for those working outdoors.
Hourly forecasts predict the most uncomfortable heat between 2 p.m. and 3 p.m. There’s no easy way around it: it’s going to feel downright oppressive in the afternoon.
Hurricane Erin and Atlantic disturbances
The Weather Authority’s Exact Track 4D is carefully monitoring Hurricane Erin as it travels north-northeast along the coast.
While Erin’s current track keeps it offshore, the system is bringing hazardous conditions to the Carolina coastline, including dangerous surf and erosion along major evacuation routes such as Highway 12 in the Outer Banks.
Locally, a high surf advisory is in effect through 8 p.m. and a high rip current risk continues through Friday evening, with waves possibly reaching 5 to 8 feet. Stay alert if you’re heading to the beach.
The Weather Authority is also tracking two other systems in the Atlantic.
One disturbance in the central Atlantic has a 70% chance of developing into a tropical depression within seven days, fueled by unusually warm sea surface temperatures and low wind shear.
Another system is forming off the coast of Africa and is being watched closely, though its development remains uncertain.
High surf and rip current risks
Jacksonville’s beaches remain under a high rip current risk and surf advisory, with dangerous conditions expected to persist through at least Friday evening.
Swimmers and surfers are urged to use caution and stay updated with The Weather Authority’s latest alerts.
Remember, conditions can change quickly, especially with tropical systems influencing the coast.
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