Jacksonville, Fla. – Dangerous surf and strong storms will keep parts of Florida on edge as October begins Wednesday. Swimmers and boaters should avoid the water, while commuters along I-95 and coastal highways face slick roads and gusty winds.
According to the National Weather Service in Jacksonville, rip current risks remain high through midweek, with warnings posted along Duval, Nassau, and St. Johns County beaches. Breezy conditions from the northeast will add to travel concerns, with wind gusts approaching 20 mph. Periods of heavy rain and thunderstorms are also possible, especially Tuesday into Wednesday.
By early Wednesday, most of Northeast Florida, including Jacksonville, Orange Park, and Fernandina Beach, can expect highs near 81 degrees under partly sunny skies. Scattered thunderstorms remain possible, particularly in the afternoon, bringing sudden downpours and dangerous lightning.
Coastal communities should continue preparing for rough seas and flooding at high tide. Drivers are urged to reduce speeds in heavy rain and avoid flooded roadways. Beachgoers should stay out of the water until rip current advisories are lifted.
Conditions improve slightly Thursday as skies clear, but winds remain strong. Sunshine returns Friday into the weekend, though another round of showers could develop by Saturday.
Warnings remain in effect for coastal waters and beaches until at least Wednesday evening, with updates expected daily.
Five-Day Forecast for Jacksonville, Fla.
- Monday: Showers and thunderstorms likely, breezy, high near 82.
- Tuesday: Chance of thunderstorms after 11 a.m., breezy, high near 81.
- Wednesday: Mostly sunny with scattered storms, breezy, high near 81.
- Thursday: Showers possible, windy, high near 79.
- Friday: Partly sunny and breezy, high near 82.
