The Weather is Great

Episode Transcript

Speaker 1 (00:00):
Hey everybody, and welcome, Welcome back to our wonderful show
and informational show about Jacksonville, Florida. So we started out
last time and we talked about Jacksonville with a lot
of generalities. We hit on a lot of different subjects

(00:22):
and didn't really get into each one of them deeply.
So the idea is we're going to start taking each
one of those things, the topics that we touched on,
and we're going to get a little more in depth.
So it's what I want to start with today. Is
in Jacksonville is not just the climate and not just

(00:46):
the weather, but actually I want to understand the micro
climates as a plural of Jacksonville. Remember Jacksonville's sprawling geography
right encompassing a significant coastal expanse and extending inland so far.

(01:06):
I mean, it results in a fascinating array just of
different micro climates. Understanding these subtle yet significant variations is
crucial for anyone planning a visit. So this is a
great place to start if you're thinking about visiting Jacksonville,
and I highly suggest you do. It's a great city

(01:27):
to visit with beaches and all that. We're going to
get into all that in a minute. So, whether for
a day trip or an extended stay, the city's climate
isn't a monolithic entity. Instead, it's a complex interplay of
factors that create distinct pockets of weather patterns. That's a mouthful,
but these variations are primarily driven by proximity to the

(01:50):
Atlantic Ocean, the present of extensive waterways such as the
Saint John's River, and the very varying elevations across the landscape.
Most prominent distinction is between the coastal and inland areas.
The coastal region naturally experiences the moderating influence of the ocean.

(02:10):
This translate to milder temperatures, particularly during the summer months,
while inland areas can experience scorching heat and higher humidity.
The coast enjoys sea breeze that often tempers the heat,
creating a more comfortable atmosphere. This difference can be quite dramatic.

(02:31):
A sweltering ninety five inland might be a fairly pleasant
eighty five with a breeze on the beach. So this
is due to the ocean's thermal inertia, the vast capacity
to absorb and release heat slowly preventing extreme temperature fluctuation fluctuations.

(02:51):
Beyond the broad coast inland dichotomy, more nuanced microclimates exists.
For instance, mediately adjacent to the Saint John's River often
experience higher humidity levels than areas further inland. The river
acts as a source of moisture, leading to a more
humid and often slightly warmer atmosphere along its banks. This

(03:15):
is especially noticeable in the summer months, when the combination
of heat and humidity can create a feeling of oppressive
stickiness and impressive is the right word there. Anyone spending
time along the river, particularly during the summer, should be
prepared for this heightened humidity. Activities like kayaking or walking
along the riverfront might require more frequent breaks. Plenty of hydration,

(03:40):
and make sure you use electrolytes in your water. That's paramount,
not just water. You eat electrolytes. I don't care what
kind it is. Gatoray is not my favorite. I think
it's kind of crap, but there are so many other
great hydration sources out there. It's still a little research.
The city's numerous parks and green spaces also exhibit localized

(04:02):
micro climates. Larger, more forested areas offer a welcome respite,
respite from the urban heat island effect, a phenomenon where
cities retain more heat than surrounding rural areas, so the
trees provide a shade and vapo transporation. Now that's a

(04:26):
new word for me. That just popped up the process
by which plants release water vapor, leading to a cooler
temperature and higher humidity within the parks compared to the
surrounding built up areas. This effect is particularly pronounced in
hot summer afternoons. Spending time in these green spaces can

(04:46):
significantly enhance comfort during the hotter periods of the year.
Elevation plays a surprisingly significant role in shaping the micro
climates within Jacksonville. You would really think that, would you.
And we're not talking like Mount Everest or anything. But
while the overall topography is relatively flat, even minor changes
in elevation can influence temperature and wind patterns. Areas situated

(05:08):
on higher ground, even slightly elevated neighborhoods or hills can
experience a slightly lower temperature and potentially stronger breezes, especially
on windy days. These slight elevations can allow for better
air circulation and a decrease in the stagnant air that
can trap heat and lower lying areas. The impact of

(05:29):
these microclimates extends beyond simple temperature and humidity. They also
influence precipitation patterns. Coastal areas are generally more prone to
afternoon showers and thunderstorms, particularly during the summer months. These
showers are often localized and very intense, can be very intense.
And I tell you it's what's cool is you can
see them coming though. I mean even if you don't

(05:50):
have your phone out checking the checking the radar. I mean,
you see these things coming and you know they're coming
for you, so you know and get to some shelter
when you need to. So these result in periods of
heavy rain lots of times followed by sunshine. And of
course we all know when the rain goes away and

(06:11):
the sunshine comes and it's ninety degrees and humid, it's
even more so right after the rainstorm. Inland areas can
experience more widespread rain events, but generally less frequent occurrences
of intense summer thunderstorms. Understanding these variants and variations is
crucial for outdoor planning, whether it's a beach day, a

(06:34):
round of golf, or an outdoor concert, all of which
Jacksonville is wonderful. I mean absolutely, the beach, the golf,
and outdoor concert areas, they're all amazing. Moreover, the presence
of building, buildings and infrastructure contributes the creation of urban microclimate.
Areas with dense urban development tend to experience a warmer

(06:57):
and less breezy atmosphere and less develop areas. I mean,
that's just kind of common sense to me. But you know,
we're just gonna touch on that a little bit. So
in the city, it's gonna get it's gonna get hot,
and it's gonna feel hot. The urban heat island effect
is mitigated by some extent to the presence of green

(07:18):
spaces within the city, so highlighting the importance of preserving
and increasing urban green infrastructure for improving overall climate. Let's see,
so talking about all this weather, I mean, what do
we need to think about how are we're going to
pack for all these different micro climates when we head

(07:39):
to Jacksonville, Right, So let's start on what we need
to wear when we're there, And of course, a lot
of that has to do with what you're appliing on doing.
But let's let's take a shot at getting this and
it give you a place to start if nothing else.
Packing for a trip to Jacksonville requires a nuanced approach
given the cities, diverse micro climates, and distinct seasonal variations

(08:00):
like throwing a few items in a bag won't cut it.
Understand these specific conditions and you'll under you'll encounter. It's
crucial for comfortable and enjoyable visit this. This is going
to help you pack strategically, ensuring you're prepared for whatever
Jacksonville throws your way, be it sunshine, showers or refreshing breaths.
Let's start with summer June to August, Jacksonville's hottest and

(08:24):
most humid period. I think relentless high temperatures often exceeding
ninety I mean we're talking mid nineties a lot of
the time, and the pervasive humidity that clings to you
like a second skin or a third skin while the
beach beckons. The heat demands careful preparation. Lightweight, breathable clothing

(08:44):
is key. Linen, cotton and moisture wicking fabrics are your
best friends. I think linen looks great. I mean, I mean,
I know it's supposed to be you know, moisture wicking
and all that, but linen to me is hot anywhere.
Long sleeve linen shirt and I'm dying, just my opinion.
Pack several pairs of shorts, lightweight pants, and loose fitting shirts.

(09:05):
Swimsuit is an absolute must in case, you know, you
might just happen to go to one of the great
beaches of Jacksonville, and that's the real must, along with
a wide brimmed hat shield you from intense sun. Sunglasses.
You got to have sunglasses, and not just for style,
but for protecting your eyes from the glare of the sun,

(09:25):
and also for the style. I don't care what they say.
Beyond the essentials, consider including a light, quick drying towel
or usable water bottle. Rehydration is critical again, electrolytes and
high SPF sunscreen co for the natural stuff. Don't put
all those chemicals on your body, and we're talking SPF
thirty or higher. Re Application is crucial, especially after swimming

(09:49):
or sweating. Flip flops sandals perfect for beach days, of course,
but consider packing the more supportive pair of shoes for
exploring the city. Don't underestimate the power of summer sun heat.
Exhaustion is a real possibility, so pack electrolyte tablets or
sports drinks to replenish lost minerals. Lightweight, easily packable umbrella

(10:11):
will provide shade during outdoor activities, and even a small
portable fan can make a significant difference in comfort levels.
Remember that evenings can bring some relief from the heat,
but mosquito repellent is definitely in order. Some of the
mosquitoes or the size of small birds. So let's talk
a spring, and we're going to call that March to May,

(10:34):
just for a reference point, offers a more moderate climate
with pleasant temperatures and generally sunny skies. However, afternoon showers
are common, so packing a lightweight, waterproof jacket that breeds
or a rain coat is a must. You'll also want layers.
Daytime temperatures can be warm, but evenings can be noticeably cooler.

(10:54):
A light sweater or long sleeved shirt is a worthwhile
addish to your suit. Comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended.
I mean, I know that's basic, but you know some
people just don't get it, and they want to You know,
the heels or the fancy shoes. I mean to take
a nice comfortable Paris sneakers or somethings. As spring is
an ideal time to explore Jacksonville numerous parts and outdoor

(11:18):
spaces you can to spend some time out there. We're
going to continue with autumn and winter next time, and
then we'll get into us more details about Charlotte, like
where to stay, where to eat, some of the sports
teams in Charlotte. There's so many I mean in Charlotte,
I mean in Jacksonville. So many great things to do

(11:39):
there other than just the beaches. And you know, Saint
Augustine is just one city away, which is an awesome
history place. So listen, you guys, have a great day,
and I appreciate you sharing a little bit of it
with me. Talk to you next time. God blessed,