Wildfire Threat will Remain Elevated over Central and South Florida... Warm Temperatures Expected Today and Tonight... Rain Chances Continue for North Florida Today and Tonight... Moderate Risk of Rip Currents along Panhandle and Atlantic Florida Beaches...

A stationary front over Central Florida is expected to dissipate today, but the lingering effects of shower activity will continue to be felt in North Florida, especially west of the Big Bend. While the Big Bend Northeast Florida will see a 20% chance of rain today, the Western Panhandle will see a 60% chance of rain as the showers drift eastward from Mobile. While an isolated thunderstorm is possible this afternoon, severe weather is not expected today. Rain accumulation is expected to be near a half inch for the West Panhandle and less for the rest of North Florida. Additionally, a 10% Chance of showers in Southeast Florida is forecast due to easterly flow bringing in showers from the Atlantic coast.

Otherwise, the foggy conditions should dissipate by 9 a.m. and reveal mostly cloudy skies for the entire state. Temperatures are to remain above normal today as they reach into the 70s for the majority of the state except next to the Southeast Coast where a high near 80 is expected.

Tonight, cloudy skies are expected to continue throughout the state. Rain chances will remain between 20% for Northeast Florida and 30% in the Panhandle. As the night progresses, patchy fog is possible for inland portions of the Western Peninsula tonight into tomorrow. Temperatures will remain in the upper 50s and 60s throughout most of Florida tonight with low 70s expected along the Southeast Florida coast. Motorists driving through inland Northeast and Central Florida should expect rapid changes in visibility when heading out onto the roadways this morning and again tonight. If you encounter smoke or fog on your commute slow down and leave extra space between your vehicle and the one in front of you. When dangerous conditions such as these are in the forecast, it is always a good idea to leave early and allow extra time to reach your destination safely.

Despite the increase of moisture keeping the humidity levels above critical levels for red flag warnings, increasingly dry soil and vegetation throughout the Peninsula will keep fire chances at moderate risk today. The recent rain for the Panhandle, however, should temporarily keep the fire risk at low levels for the area. Residents should properly extinguish all open flames, including cigarettes and campfires. Follow local regulations for the burning or disposal of yard waste and other materials. Keep gutters, leaves and yards clear of debris, sticks, pine needles and leaves. Indoor fire safety with space heaters is also important during cold weather. For fire safety tips, visit www.firewise.org.

Wind and ocean conditions will bring a moderate risk of rip currents to the beaches along the Panhandle and Atlantic Coast. This risk will likely persist through this evening. A low risk for rip currents will exist for Florida Gulf Coast beaches. Anyone who plans to enter the chilly surf this week should check their local rip current forecast and learn how to escape a rip current before going to their beach destination. Everyone should always remember that the safest beaches are the ones protected by lifeguards.