JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The First Coast is gearing up for a chilly weekend as a blast of Arctic air sweeps through the area.
Weather conditions over the weekend
This mornings chill kicked off with Jacksonville’s first freeze of the year, with temperatures dipping to 32 degrees. While the sunshine during the day helped temperatures rise to 64 degrees, the frosty conditions are expected to return overnight with a frost advisory inland from 4-9am Saturday.
Residents should brace for temperatures to drop into the low 50s by 7 p.m., and then into the 40s overnight. Inland regions, such as Baker County and interior Georgia, may face a light freeze with lows around 32 degrees. While Jacksonville along the riverfront expects lows near 35 degrees, those in and around the coastal areas might be relieved to know frost is less likely due to consistent breezes.
Influence of breezes and land-ocean temperature differences
The detailed weather forecast points out how land and ocean temperature differences create breezes that influence local weather patterns. Typically seen as sea breezes during summer, this time of year transitions into land breezes at night due to the warmer ocean waters compared to cooler land temperatures. This land breeze, stronger along coastal areas, might help prevent frost formation in those regions.
A dry front is making its way through, today and its impact will certainly be noticeable tomorrow since Saturday’s temperatures only reach the mid 50s. Temps perk up warming slightly to the lower to mid 60s on Sunday, and reaching the low 70s by Monday.
Cold for the long haul
Looking ahead, after Mondays showers, Jacksonville could be in for much colder air, possibly the coldest of the season. Starting Tuesday temperatures will stay below 60 degrees until Saturday.