Cold air surges across northeast Florida this morning, rattling palms and sending flags snapping hard along the coast. The breeze feels sharper than usual, and jackets are suddenly necessary before sunrise.
According to the National Weather Service in Jacksonville, a Wind Advisory remains in effect for coastal Duval County through 9 a.m., while a Cold Weather Advisory continues until 10 a.m. Northeast winds of 15 to 25 mph, with gusts up to 40 mph, are creating rough conditions on roads and along the shoreline. Wind chills have dipped into the 30s, a shock for mid-December in Florida.
Drivers of high-profile vehicles should use extra caution, especially on exposed roadways and bridges. Loose outdoor items can blow around, and brief power outages are possible if tree limbs come down. Residents are urged to secure decorations and avoid unnecessary travel during the strongest gusts.
Along the coast, a High Rip Current Risk remains in effect through this evening for nearby beaches. Dangerous surf can quickly pull even strong swimmers away from shore. Beachgoers should stay out of the water and follow local safety guidance.
As the day continues, sunshine returns and winds gradually ease. Highs reach near 50°F, though it stays breezy. Tonight remains cool, with lows near 40°F, setting up a calmer but still chilly start Tuesday.
By Tuesday, conditions improve noticeably. Sunshine dominates, and highs climb into the low 60s. Wednesday turns warmer, nearing 70°F, signaling a fast rebound after this brief winter punch. To be fair, that warmth ushers in another shift.
Late Thursday, clouds increase and a chance of showers arrives early Friday. With recent cold air lingering, residents should stay alert for changing conditions during early holiday travel.
5-Day Outlook for Jacksonville
- Today: Windy, cool, high near 50°F
- Tuesday: Sunny, high near 63°F
- Wednesday: Partly sunny, warmer, high near 69°F
- Thursday: Partly sunny, high near 75°F
- Friday: Slight rain chance early, high near 72°F
