JACKSONVILLE, FL – As temperatures soar across the Southeastern United States, residents brace themselves for scorching conditions set to break records this week before welcoming a much-needed cool down over the weekend. From Jacksonville to Alma, Georgia, cities are experiencing unseasonably high temperatures reminiscent of historical milestones.
With southwest winds sweeping through Florida, temperatures are expected to reach the mid-90s, with the highest readings in eastern Florida. Central Florida may even approach or break records on Wednesday and Thursday, reaching the upper 90s.
Locally, records may be set on Thursday for these cities, though records are less likely on Friday.
Wednesday, May 8:
Jacksonville: 96°F (1959)
Craig Field (CRG): 93°F (1977)
Gainesville (GNV): 97°F (1955)
Alma, Georgia (AMG): 95°F (1962)
Thursday, May 9:
Jacksonville: 96°F (1962)
Craig Field (CRG): 93°F (2008)
Gainesville (GNV): 95°F (2011)
Alma, Georgia (AMG): 95°F (1962)
Friday, May 10:
Jacksonville: 94°F (2017)
Craig Field (CRG): 95°F (2003)
Gainesville (GNV): 95°F (2011)
Alma, Georgia (AMG): 95°F (2011)
As temperatures reach levels not seen in Jacksonville since September, concerns about heat-related health issues are possible. The combination of high temperatures and humidity can pose risks to vulnerable populations, such as the elderly and young children, and can exacerbate existing health conditions.
Furthermore, record-breaking heat can lead to increased energy demands as residents rely on air conditioning to stay cool, potentially putting stress on power grids and driving up utility costs.
Relief in Sight
Despite the sweltering conditions, relief is on the horizon as a cooling trend is expected to arrive over the weekend. While temperatures remain high today and tomorrow, residents are advised to take precautions to stay safe in the heat, such as staying hydrated, seeking shade, and avoiding strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day.
As the Southeast grapples with record-breaking heat, it serves as a reminder of the increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events attributed to climate change. While this early heat only lasts two days, it is a precursor to months of 90-degree heat this summer that hopefully won’t repeat Florida’s warmest tied year on record since 1895.