Thunderstorms, Torrential Downpours For North Florida
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FLORIDA WORD
September 2, 2026 10:56 am
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National Weather Service Rain Chances for Florida Florida on Wednesday, September 2, 2026
JACKSONVILLE, Florida – The National Weather Service in Jacksonville is forecasting showers moving onshore this morning followed by an increase in thunderstorm coverage this afternoon and evening across inland Northeast Florida, with a couple of strong storms possible on Wednesday, September 2, 2026.
According to NWS Jacksonville, showers will continue to move onshore and push inland this morning. Thunderstorm coverage is expected to increase across inland northeast Florida and north-central Florida this afternoon and evening as the sea breeze interacts with deep tropical moisture.
A couple of strong storms are possible, capable of producing wind gusts of 40–50 mph and torrential downpours. Localized flooding is possible in low-lying and poor-drainage areas, especially along the I-75 corridor.
The best window for stronger storms is 2 p.m. through 8 p.m. Showers and isolated storms remain possible before 2 p.m. and after 8 p.m.
Today (Wednesday, September 2): Showers this morning becoming more numerous inland this afternoon and evening. A couple of strong storms possible with gusty winds and heavy rainfall. High near 89°F. Heat index values as high as 100°F. Chance of precipitation 50–60% inland.
Thursday through the weekend: Daily afternoon and evening showers and thunderstorms remain likely, with additional rainfall possible each day. Storm coverage may be higher Thursday.
Key hazards this period include:
Localized flooding rain possible this afternoon and evening across inland Northeast Florida and north-central Florida, especially along the I-75 corridor
Urban, poor drainage, and low-lying area flooding possible where storms stall — never drive or walk through flooded roads
Gusty winds 40–50 mph possible with stronger storms
Heat indices near 100°F today and around 102°F Thursday
Lightning safety critical – seek shelter in a building or hard-topped vehicle at the first sign of thunder or lightning
High rip current risk at Northeast Florida beaches and moderate risk at Southeast Georgia beaches
The best chances for heavier rainfall and gusty winds today are inland, including parts of the Suwannee Valley and areas around Gainesville, Lake City, Palatka, and Ocala.
Motorists should use extra caution this afternoon and evening on slick roads, especially in low-lying spots and areas with poor drainage. Turn around, don’t drown if water covers a roadway.
Locations within the higher storm risk area include Gainesville, Palatka, Ocala, Lake City, Live Oak, Starke, and inland portions of the Jacksonville metro.
Showers moving inland this morning with an increase in thunderstorms this afternoon and evening. A couple of strong storms possible with gusty winds and heavy rain. High near 89°F. Heat index values as high as 100°F. Northeast winds 10 to 16 mph. Chance of precipitation 50%. Localized flooding possible inland, especially toward I-75.
Tonight
A chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly this evening. Mostly cloudy with a low around 77°F. Chance of precipitation 30%.
Thursday
Showers and thunderstorms likely, mainly in the morning and early afternoon. Partly sunny with a high near 90°F. Heat indices up to about 102°F possible. Chance of precipitation 60%.
Friday
Partly sunny with showers and thunderstorms likely, mainly in the afternoon. High near 91°F. Chance of precipitation 70%.
Saturday
Mostly sunny with a chance of afternoon thunderstorms. High near 92°F. Storm coverage should be more isolated.
