Strong Thunderstorms, Gusty Winds For North Florida

JACKSONVILLE, Florida – The National Weather Service in Jacksonville has issued a Thunderstorm Outlook for Friday, June 26, 2026, with strong to isolated severe thunderstorms possible across much of northeast Florida (east of Interstate 75) and southeast Georgia this afternoon and evening.

Thunderstorm activity is expected to develop this afternoon and continue through mid-evening hours. The strongest storms are anticipated closer to the I-95 corridor and areas east of I-75 as southwest flow interacts with the sea breeze and other boundaries.

According to the National Weather Service in Jacksonville, the primary threats from stronger storms are damaging wind gusts of 40-60 mph (downburst winds), frequent lightning, and heavy downpours that could lead to localized minor flooding.

According to NWS Jacksonville, strong to isolated severe thunderstorms are possible today across the region, with the main focus on areas east of I-75 in northeast Florida and southeast Georgia.

Storms today may produce:

• Damaging winds (40-60 mph downbursts) – Primary threat
• Frequent lightning
• Locally heavy downpours (minor flooding possible in spots)

The storms are expected to bring beneficial rainfall across parts of the region where they develop. Outdoor enthusiasts should have a safe shelter plan ready this afternoon and evening.

Areas at highest risk for strong thunderstorms today include:

• Jacksonville and surrounding areas east of I-75
• St. Augustine
• Palatka
• Live Oak
• Ocala
• Gainesville
• Palm Coast
• Portions of southeast Georgia (including areas south of Waycross and near St. Simons Island)

Jacksonville Weather Forecast

Friday (Today)
Hot with a high near 95°F. Sunny then thunderstorms likely, mainly after 2pm. Scattered strong to isolated severe storms possible in the afternoon and evening with damaging wind gusts up to 60 mph, frequent lightning, and locally heavy downpours. Heat index values as high as 105°F or higher. Light west to southwest wind.

Friday Night
A chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 8pm. Partly cloudy. Low around 75-77°F. Light wind.