Florida is preparing for a significant drop in temperatures as an Arctic cold front pushes into the state, bringing what meteorologists are calling the coldest weather of the season.
After an extended period of unusually warm December weather, the incoming system is expected to dramatically cool the Sunshine State, with some areas potentially approaching near-freezing conditions.
According to forecasts from the National Weather Service, an Arctic front will begin moving into parts of northern Florida early this week and continue through Tuesday (December 30).
What are the temperatures in Florida?
Friday (December 26) saw highs soar into the mid-to upper-70 fahrenheit throughout northern Florida, while central and southern regions basked in upper 70s and lower 80s temperatures, the Florida Department of Emergency Management confirmed.
The Arctic front responsible for the cooler temperatures is originating from the Northeast and the Great Lakes region, where snowy and icy conditions have disrupted holiday travel, according to the Daily Express US.
This cold snap comes at a time when much of Florida had enjoyed a mild stretch of weather, making the abrupt change even more noticeable for locals and visitors alike.
Florida had unusually mild or warm weather before the cold front and then faced a strong Arctic cold blast that brought the season’s lowest temperatures and freeze warnings, including record cold conditions for some early-season dates, according to Weather.com
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The system affecting Florida is part of a broader weather pattern impacting much of the eastern United States. Regions further north have already seen snow and icy conditions as the same Arctic blast moved from the Great Lakes down toward the Southeast. While heavy snowfall is not expected in Florida this time, the cold air associated with the front will be felt state-wide, especially in northern areas and inland communities where frost could form overnight, according to WSLS.
What does this mean for Floridians?
For Floridians, the change means digging out warmer clothing and preparing homes, pets, and vulnerable plants for temperatures well below recent averages. In the past, cold snaps like these have even led to unusual weather phenomena, such as iguanas temporarily losing muscle control in the chill, though widespread impacts of that nature are not yet forecast, according to Fox 35 Orlando.
As the cold front sweeps through, residents are encouraged to stay updated with local forecasts and advisories from weather officials to better navigate the chilly conditions ahead.
