JACKSONVILLE, Florida – The National Weather Service in Jacksonville has issued an updated Thunderstorm Outlook for Friday, July 17, 2026. Isolated thunderstorms are expected this afternoon and early evening across parts of North Florida. A few strong storms are possible, with the best chance along the HWY 301 and I-75 corridors. Activity should diminish later this evening. According to the National Weather Service in Jacksonville, the primary threats include storm hazards of gusty winds 35-45 mph in the stronger storms, frequent lightning, and heavy downpours that could lead to localized minor flooding, especially in urban areas. The main window for storms is 3–9 pm today. [caption id="attachment_11564" align="alignleft" width="725"] National Weather Service Jacksonville Isolated Thunderstorms Outlook – Friday, July 17, 2026.[/caption] The Flooding Rainfall Risk Outlook shows only a Marginal Risk (Level 1 of 4) today, with the chance of excessive rainfall within 25 miles of any point less than 5%. Similar low (Marginal) risk continues through the weekend. [caption id="attachment_11565" align="aligncenter" width="725"] National Weather Service Jacksonville Flooding Rainfall Risk Outlook – Issued July 16, 2026.[/caption] Storms today may produce: Gusty winds 35-45 mph – Primary threat from any stronger storms Frequent lightning Localized heavy downpours (minor flooding possible, especially in urban areas) The combination of typical summer heat and isolated thunderstorms will bring beneficial rainfall in some areas, but outdoor enthusiasts, beachgoers, and workers should have a safe shelter plan ready this afternoon and evening. Take frequent breaks, stay hydrated with water, and seek shade or air conditioning during peak heat hours (noon–6 PM). Never leave children or pets in vehicles. Areas at highest risk today include inland North Florida along the HWY 301 and I-75 corridors (including areas near Lake City, Gainesville, Palatka, Ocala, and surrounding communities). Coastal areas including Jacksonville and the immediate beaches have a lower risk of strong storms today. Jacksonville Weather Forecast Today A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly between 2pm and 4pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 93. Heat index values as high as 103. Calm wind becoming north 5 to 7 mph in the afternoon. Tonight A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly between 8pm and 9pm. Partly cloudy, with a low around 77. Southwest wind 3 to 7 mph. Saturday A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 3pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 94. Heat index values as high as 105. South wind 5 to 9 mph. New rainfall amounts of less than a tenth of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms. Saturday Night A chance of showers and thunderstorms before 11pm, then a slight chance of showers between 11pm and 2am. Partly cloudy, with a low around 77. Southwest wind 7 to 9 mph. Chance of precipitation is 30%. Sunday A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 2pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 93. South wind 8 to 11 mph, with gusts as high as 17 mph. Sunday Night A chance of showers and thunderstorms before 11pm, then a slight chance of showers between 11pm and 2am. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 77. Chance of precipitation is 30%. Monday A slight chance of thunderstorms, then showers and thunderstorms likely after 8am. Partly sunny, with a high near 92. Chance of precipitation is 60%. Monday Night Showers and thunderstorms likely, mainly before 8pm. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 77. Chance of precipitation is 60%. Tuesday Showers and thunderstorms likely, mainly after 2pm. Partly sunny, with a high near 93. Chance of precipitation is 60%. Tuesday Night Showers and thunderstorms likely before 8pm. Partly cloudy, with a low around 78. Chance of precipitation is 60%. Wednesday A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 94. Wednesday Night A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 78.