Kasia Dietz
Updated on: October 11, 2024 6:35 am GMT
Jacksonville has experienced an unusually wet start to September 2024, with rainfall totals significantly exceeding normal levels. As of the latest reports, the city has received more than 11 inches of rain this month, starkly surpassing the typical September average. This trend raises important considerations for homeowners regarding outdoor maintenance and emergency preparedness as the rainy season continues.
Record Rainfall in September
According to data from the National Weather Service, Jacksonville recorded 11.34 inches of rain through Thursday, September 12. This total is more than 8 inches above the typical amount for the first 12 days of the month. Significantly, a single-day rainfall record was set on September 12 when 4.85 inches fell. The average rainfall for the entirety of September is normally 7.56 inches, making this period one of the wettest starts to the month on record.
In 2024 alone, the total rainfall in Jacksonville has reached 56.25 inches, exceeding the city’s normal annual rainfall of approximately 53.40 inches. Historical data suggests that September can be a rainy month; however, the current totals are notable, especially when compared to historical extremes—66.75 inches recorded in 1991 and 16.06 inches in 1954.
Continued Chances of Rain
The National Weather Service predicts that Jacksonville will continue to experience rain in the coming days, with chances of precipitation remaining at 50% or more through the next week. As local residents prepare for the potential impacts of such weather conditions, it’s essential to consider how this prolonged wet season may affect homes and gardens.
Preparing Your Yard for Seasonal Changes
As homeowners start to think about fall maintenance, they also need to account for the unique challenges posed by an especially rainy season. One essential aspect of autumn preparation involves outdoor lighting, particularly given safety concerns associated with longer hours of darkness paired with inclement weather.
Maintenance for Outdoor Lighting
When planning maintenance for outdoor lighting before winter, several key steps should be undertaken:
- Clean Light Fixtures: Ensure that lenses are free from dirt and debris, using soap and water to wipe them down.
- Inspect Cables: Look for exposed wires and secure any connections with electrical tape.
- Remove Debris: Regularly clear away leaf litter and other debris to prevent damage to fixtures.
- Trim Surrounding Vegetation: Prune plants and hedges that may obstruct light sources.
- Replace Burned-Out Bulbs: Conduct a walk-through of the yard to identify and replace any non-functioning lights.
In addition to these maintenance efforts, homeowners may want to consider upgrading to LED lights. LED fixtures are durable, energy-efficient, and provide brighter illumination that can enhance safety during the darker months.
Choosing the Right Outdoor Lighting
Homeowners should also evaluate the durability of their outdoor lights, especially in regions that experience significant snowfall. An important consideration is the IP rating, which indicates how well a fixture withstands moisture and dirt. Fixtures rated IP65 and above offer better protection against adverse weather conditions, while those at IP68 are designed for extreme environments.
As the days grow shorter, adjusting the angle of outdoor lighting fixtures may help improve visibility during nighttime hours. Homeowners are encouraged to assess their properties, noting any areas needing better illumination for safety.
Security Lighting and Timers
As part of winter lighting adjustments, residents should review their security lighting systems. This includes testing motion sensors and adjusting the sensitivity settings to minimize false triggers, particularly in inclement weather.
Properly timed outdoor lights can add a layer of security and ensure that paths and driveways remain illuminated when needed. Homeowners may want to consider smart bulbs that can be programmed according to specific schedules, adapting to changing daylight hours.
Aesthetic Considerations for Winter Lighting
The seasonal change also presents opportunities for aesthetic adjustments in outdoor lighting. Options such as colored holiday lights or twinkling bulbs can create an inviting atmosphere during the winter months. Additionally, altering uplighting techniques to illuminate tree branches instead of trunks may enhance visual appeal.
As winter approaches, homeowners should prioritize the ongoing cleaning and maintenance of their light fixtures. Accumulation of snow and debris can lead to reduced visibility and damage over time, necessitating regular attention.
The rainy season is here, and it’s important for people in Jacksonville to take care of their homes. To keep their properties safe and looking good, homeowners should pay attention to their yards and make changes to outdoor lighting. This way, they can enjoy their homes even when the weather is wet.
