High pressure remains firmly in control this week, and the forecast continues unchanged. At the surface, a high-pressure system positioned just east of the Carolinas will keep easterly winds in place through the rest of the week.
The bigger story, however, is developing overhead. Beginning Wednesday afternoon, a strong upper-level high-pressure system will settle in, creating sinking air across the region. As air sinks through the atmosphere, it compresses and warms — leading to rising temperatures.
As a result, many areas across Central and North Florida could see near-record or record-high temperatures. Afternoon highs are expected to reach the mid to upper 80s across much of the state, including Southwest Florida, from Wednesday through Saturday.
This prolonged heat will make conditions more challenging for firefighters battling the wildfire near the Naples area.
Read the latest about the Newman Drive fire
In addition, this upper-level “heat dome” will suppress cloud formation and prevent rain from developing. Rain chances will remain very low across Southwest Florida over the next seven days.
While the southeast remains breezy at times, winds stay around 10 mph at most across Southwest Florida. This is good news for the firefighters battling the Newman Dr. fire. Temperatures are on the rise. pic.twitter.com/6uliPd7rKp
— Florida Public Radio Emergency Network (FPREN) (@FloridaStorms) April 14, 2026
In the short term, winds will stay relatively light — around 5 to 10 mph out of the east, which is at least a small positive for firefighting efforts.
A new drought update will be released on Thursday, and we’ll have the latest details for you on Thursday morning.
