Jacksonville, FL – If you were hoping for a calm and relaxing Sunday, Mother Nature has other plans. A powerful weather system is heading our way today, February 16, 2025, bringing strong winds and the potential for severe thunderstorms. The National Weather Service has issued a Wind Advisory from 7 AM to 7 PM EST, warning that gusts could hit up to 45 mph. That’s strong enough to send trash cans flying, snap tree branches, and even knock out power in some areas.
What’s Coming – And Why You Should Care
A strong squall line of thunderstorms is expected to charge through Southeast Georgia and Northeast Florida from this morning into mid-afternoon. And these aren’t just passing showers – they could be dangerous.
- Damaging Winds: These gusts can knock down trees and cause structural damage.
- Isolated Tornadoes: No need to panic, but yes, tornadoes are possible. Stay alert and have a plan.
- Heavy Rain & Lightning: Roads may become slick, and visibility could drop fast, making driving conditions hazardous.
Now is the time to have a plan in place. If you don’t already know where your safe place is, figure it out. Also, make sure your phone is set to receive emergency alerts – weather can shift quickly, and you don’t want to be caught off guard.
How to Stay Safe During Today’s Storms
Weather warnings can feel routine, but today’s forecast is one to take seriously. Here’s how to prepare:
- Secure Outdoor Items: If you’ve got patio furniture, decorations, or anything lightweight outside, bring it in or tie it down. You don’t want it turning into a missile.
- Drive with Caution: High winds can make handling your car tricky, especially if you’re in a larger vehicle. Watch out for flying debris and fallen branches.
- Stay Connected: Keep an eye on weather updates. Sign up for AlertJax, Jacksonville’s emergency notification system, and check the latest forecasts at weather.gov.
The Forecast for the Next Few Days
Once today’s storms blow through, things will calm down and cool off a bit:
- Monday, February 17: A refreshing change – cool, sunny, and breezy. High near 60°F, low around 42°F.
- Tuesday, February 18: A little warmer with a mix of sunshine and clouds. High of 71°F, low near 56°F.
- Wednesday, February 19: Rain makes a comeback, with possible thunderstorms. High of 74°F, low around 48°F.
Jacksonville, today’s weather isn’t something to take lightly. High winds, storms, and even the possibility of tornadoes mean you should be prepared. Secure your stuff, stay indoors during the worst of it, and keep up with the latest alerts. By tonight, the worst should be over, and we’ll be looking at calmer weather ahead. Stay safe, stay aware, and take care of yourself and your loved ones!
