Excessive heat cranks up across Jacksonville<\/p>\n
JACKSONVILLE, Fla.<\/strong> \u2013 Prepare for a scorcher, Jacksonville. News4JAX meteorologist Katie Garner says the area is in for a stretch of excessive heat, with temperatures expected to soar into the upper 90s and the heat index (\u201cfeels-like\u201d temperature) likely pushing over 100 degrees.<\/p>\n On The Weather Authority\u2019s latest Exact Track 4D forecast, temperatures are forecast to climb to 97 degrees in Jacksonville and hit as high as 98 degrees in Orange Park. Areas like Keystone Heights, Lake Butler, and St. Augustine can expect highs between 91 and 98 degrees.<\/p>\n Garner explained, \u201cWe\u2019re gonna feel really hot well up into those 100 degree feels like temperature. So it\u2019s gonna be brutal.\u201d The high humidity combined with a stubborn area of high pressure is making the air feel even hotter. Feels-like values from 100 to 103 degrees are expected for much of the region during the afternoon hours.<\/p>\n For those living or working outside, it\u2019s going to be a tough stretch. Garner emphasizes that while the occasional breeze might pop up in the afternoon, \u201cif it feels like it\u2019s 102, 103?\u201d\u2014even a breeze won\u2019t offer much relief.<\/p>\n Weekend and extended forecast: No major cooldown in sight<\/p>\n If you\u2019re hoping for a sudden shift to cooler days, you might need to wait a little longer. According to The Weather Authority\u2019s outlook, the heat will stick around through the weekend and into next week.<\/p>\n Saturday brings a high of 97 degrees while Sunday is expected to tick up to 98 degrees, both with partly cloudy skies. The 7-day forecast shows persistent mid-to-upper 90s with limited relief in sight. A few pop-up showers could drift through, but widespread rain isn\u2019t likely.<\/p>\n The forecast graphics also show a moderate rip current risk for area beaches, so those heading to the coast should stay alert and follow local advisories.<\/p>\n Outdoor safety: Hydrate, protect yourself, and watch the heat<\/p>\n Feeling tempted to tackle some yard work or squeeze in a long walk with your dog? News4JAX\u2019s meteorologist urges everyone to take extra precautions this weekend. Her on-air advice: slather on sunscreen, drink plenty of water, and try to schedule strenuous activities for the coolest parts of the day.<\/p>\n The Dog Walk Forecast from Exact Track 4D reinforces this point\u2014expect 91 degrees by 11 a.m. and 92 by 3 p.m., with mostly sunny skies. The message: conditions heat up quickly, so even short spells outside can take a toll.<\/p>\n On a lighter note, Garner referenced a recent experience with a colleague who got \u201cabsolutely roasted\u201d during some yardwork, ending up with a sunburned back. Her advice: finish your chores if you must, but be \u201csmart about it\u201d and take regular breaks.<\/p>\n