Zach Maloch
•4/15/2026

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA, (WINK) — WINK News Weather Authority meteorologists continue to monitor conditions around the Newman Dr/Picayune Strand State Forest fire. While we are seeing a bit more moisture in the air, an east wind will still bring smoke to some Collier County communities throughout the day.
Our next chance for rain is slim, with only a few showers possible on Monday as a very weak cold front moves across Southwest Florida.
WINK News is on fire watch as our crews continue to monitor the Newman Dr/Picayune Strand Forest Fire as smoke will continue passing over southern Collier County today.
While we'll see an east breeze, coastal Collier County will see a weak onshore wind throughout the afternoon which can keep that smoke farther east. Plan for another warm day with highs in the mid to upper 80s.
Thursday morning will start quite pleasant and cool, with lows in the lower to mid 60s. Expect another dry and warm day, with highs in the mid to upper 80s.
A large area of high pressure in the upper levels of the atmosphere will have a stronger influence over Southwest Florida as we close out the week.
Friday morning will be a bit milder, with lows in the mid 60s. Heat builds for your Friday plans, with highs climbing into the upper 80s to near 90 degrees.
We’ll stay dry, but that heat could sneak up on you throughout the day. Temperatures will be another degree or two warmer on Saturday.
WINK News Weather Authority meteorologists are tracking these hotter temperatures and their impact on your weekend plans. You can find the latest forecast on TV on WINK News.