Blood Moon Mornings and Sunny Afternoons: Jacksonville’s Tuesday Outlook

A Rare Celestial Start to a Warm Tuesday

Jacksonville residents waking up early this Tuesday, March 3, 2026, are in for a rare treat as a total lunar eclipse, often referred to as a "Blood Moon," graces the morning sky. This celestial event is expected to be the last total lunar eclipse visible until late 2028, making it a must-see for local skywatchers. The eclipse process begins in the early dawn hours, with the total eclipse phase starting at 6:04 a.m. and reaching its peak at 6:34 a.m. The moon will likely take on a deep reddish hue before the eclipse concludes at approximately 7:03 a.m.

Morning Conditions: Fog and Chilly Temps

While the lunar eclipse takes center stage, early commuters should be mindful of the terrestrial weather. The morning will start on the cooler side with temperatures in the mid-50s. Patchy fog is expected to develop across Duval County, which could impact visibility for those heading to local parks or open fields to view the eclipse. Drivers are encouraged to allow extra time and use low-beam headlights if they encounter dense patches of fog during the morning rush hour.

Afternoon Forecast: Sunshine and Spring Warmth

As the sun rises and the fog dissipates, Jacksonville will transition into a beautiful and warm spring day. Afternoon highs are projected to reach a pleasant 77°F, significantly warmer than the early morning hours. Skies will remain mostly sunny with occasional broken clouds passing through. Humidity levels will hover around 60%, and an easterly wind of approximately 9 mph will provide a light breeze, especially for those located closer to the St. Johns River or the Atlantic coast. There is virtually no chance of rain today, with precipitation probabilities sitting at a meager 2%.

Evening and Overnight Outlook

Conditions will remain calm as we head into the evening hours. Temperatures will slowly retreat into the 60s after sunset, eventually bottoming out at a low of 56°F overnight. Skies will stay partly cloudy, and the return of patchy fog is possible late Tuesday night into early Wednesday morning. It will be a cool, crisp night perfect for outdoor activities, provided you have a light jacket handy.

Important Hazards and Environmental Notices

While the weather appears tranquil, there are two important safety and environmental factors to keep in mind today:

• Coastal Rip Current Risk: An increase in onshore winds this week has heightened the risk of rip currents along the Jacksonville beaches. Swimmers are advised to stay near lifeguard-protected areas.
• Extreme Drought Conditions: Most of the Jacksonville area remains under an "extreme" drought status. With little to no rain in the immediate forecast, residents are urged to follow local water conservation guidelines and remain vigilant regarding fire safety.