Jacksonville is facing a severe drought with a nearly one-foot rain deficit. Meteorologist Katie Garner from News4JAX's The Weather Authority details current dry conditions, this week's forecast, and the heightened fire risk.
Family of man found fatally stabbed in Orange Park seeks support for funeral after being denied victim compensationPaid parking in downtown Fernandina Beach starts Monday. Here’s what you should knowThe threat for severe weather will diminish later this evening– If you’re hoping for some steady rain to break up this dry streak, I’ve got some tough news.
We’re sitting nearly inches below where we should be for rainfall. Even though we saw some storms yesterday, with flashes of lightning lighting up the sky in quite a few neighborhoods, it barely made a dent in our drought situation. The latest drought monitor shows most of us stuck at “severe drought,” and that’s just one step away from being labeled “extreme.” It’s a big problem that’s not going away overnight.Now, on the upside, you’ll notice when you head out this morning, it feels comfy—Julington Creek was registering 62 degrees when I checked. There’s barely a breeze, so it’s actually pretty nice if you want to get moving early. Looking ahead, we’re forecast to hit a high of around 69 degrees today with clouds hanging in. Overnight, plan for partly cloudy skies and a drop to about 49 degrees. It’ll feel chilly, so you might want to grab an extra layer if you’re heading out early Friday. Those heading out for a dog walk are in luck—by 11 a.m., temps should reach 64 degrees and you’ll find it mostly cloudy but pleasant. Later into the afternoon, nothing much changes except a mild climb in temperatures, so your furry friends are likely to enjoy their stroll.Given just how dry it is, fire risk is something I’m keeping a close watch on. I’ll be diving deeper into the Exact Track 4D Fire and Smoke Outlook in our next segment, but for now, know that dry conditions make it easier for fires to start and spread. That risk sticks with us as long as this drought holds on. If you notice smoky conditions or anything unusual in your neighborhood, remember you can share your photos with us and our community through SnapJAX at Visibility is mostly good around the area. Earlier, we did see some fog in Macclenny and down near Palatka, but that cleared out quickly as the sun came up today. Winds are light—no more than 5 to 10 mph—so you aren’t likely to notice much as you go about your day.Family of man killed by JSO questions use of deadly force given his mental health historyFamily demands answers after JSO officers fatally shoot man in drivewayBook calls attention to Jacksonville's post-pandemic affordability crisisWoman creates mobile hair salon to pamper families in need for free at Jacksonville hospitalsPhase 1 water shortage amid drought conditionsCats and kittens are helping inmates heal thanks to a Flagler County rehabilitation programCity council greenlights plans to establish community benefits agreement boardTelethon Rain: Every bit counts | Chief Meteorologist Richard Nunn explainsTocoi Creek girls basketball team not sneaking up on teams this seasonMan spotted for 2nd time in stolen car fatally shot by 2 officers: JSO
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