Jacksonville residents should brace for thunderstorms by 2 p.m. Wednesday, with heavy rain and gusty winds expected to impact travel, especially along I-95 and U.S. Route 1. As Florida enters a prolonged summer storm pattern, an 80% chance of thunderstorms is forecast for the afternoon, intensifying between 2 and 8 p.m. The storms could bring lightning, localized flooding, and heavy downpours, making travel challenging.
Thunderstorms and Travel Disruptions Expected
The National Weather Service in Jacksonville warns that thunderstorms will develop in the afternoon, bringing gusty south winds up to 16 mph and a higher risk of flash flooding in urban and low-lying areas. Storms will be accompanied by lightning and reduced visibility, potentially disrupting traffic across Jacksonville and surrounding cities. Travelers should avoid driving through flooded streets and underpasses, which could rapidly fill with water during the storms.
Cities such as Orange Park, St. Augustine, and Fernandina Beach are expected to see brief street flooding, with power flickers also possible as storms pass through the region. Residents should keep phones charged and secure loose outdoor items that may be affected by the wind.
Ongoing Wet Pattern and Storm Timing
The stormy pattern will continue into Thursday, with another round of storms expected between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Friday and Saturday will bring similar timing for storms, ensuring a stretch of high-impact weather days. While no widespread severe weather alerts have been issued, the pattern is similar to past June systems that have disrupted travel and strained drainage systems in the area.
Five-Day Weather Outlook for Jacksonville (June 10–15)
- Tuesday: High 92°F, 40% chance of afternoon storms
- Wednesday: High 89°F, 80% chance of storms after 2 p.m.
- Thursday: High 91°F, 80% chance of storms midday
- Friday: High 91°F, 80% chance of storms after 2 p.m.
- Saturday: High 91°F, 80% chance of storms
While the weather should improve early next week, stormy conditions and high rain chances will persist through Sunday.
Safety Tips for Jacksonville Residents
Given the expected storms and heavy rainfall, it’s important for residents to stay safe by:
- Avoiding travel during peak storm hours if possible.
- Watching for water ponding on highways, particularly during commutes.
- Securing outdoor items that could be affected by strong winds.
- Keeping phones charged in case of power outages.
- Staying updated with weather alerts, as conditions may change rapidly.
