This Friday morning, South Florida found itself under the grip of the most frigid air it has experienced in nearly four years.
Authorities issued a cold weather advisory for the inland areas of Broward and Miami-Dade counties, effective until 9:00 am. Thermometers recorded lows in the 40s Fahrenheit, with wind chills making it feel like the 30s in some places.
According to Local 10, the day began with a noticeable chill, and while it was expected to be sunny and dry, temperatures were not anticipated to rise above 60 °F.
Weekend forecasts suggest a slight warming trend, though chilly conditions are expected to persist across the state.
The National Weather Service (NWS) in Miami confirmed that, although some regions could see further drops before dawn, conditions were predicted to improve by midday as temperatures climb back to around 60 degrees.
On social media, the NWS shared comparisons of actual temperatures versus wind chills across various parts of South Florida.
Meanwhile, Telemundo's chief meteorologist, Rubén Capote, reported remarkably low temperatures recorded on January 16 across much of Central Florida and the Tampa Bay area, with widespread frost indicative of a significant cold event for the "Sunshine State."
Capote also highlighted the sharp temperature drop the previous night, with decreases ranging from 10 to 17 degrees in certain areas.
Chilly Weather Sweeps Across Florida
In northern Florida, temperatures neared the freezing mark, while further south, including parts of Miami, readings were in the 40s—a notable chill for Florida.
During the early hours, temperatures continued to fall, reaching their lowest point just before sunrise. Wind chill factors suggested it felt like the 30s in many cities, with models indicating values close to 35 or 36 degrees in Miami. However, Capote estimated sensations closer to 38 or 40 degrees.
Elsewhere in the state, actual air temperatures approached freezing, prompting frost advisories.
The meteorologist noted that this cold spell wouldn't be fleeting. Despite a slight warm-up on Saturday, another cold front expected on Sunday would lead to another significant temperature drop.
Capote predicted that Florida would continue to experience cold episodes through the middle of next week.
Safety Precautions Amid the Cold
In light of these conditions, the Miami-Dade Fire Rescue Department (MDFR) released a comprehensive list of safety recommendations to protect people, homes, pets, and plants.
Spokesperson Erika Benítez warned that improper use of portable heaters and other heating devices increases the risk of fires, injuries, and carbon monoxide exposure.
Key suggestions for individuals include staying indoors as much as possible, monitoring vulnerable groups—such as young children, the elderly, and those with chronic illnesses—and dressing in layers of loose-fitting clothing when going outside, ensuring heads and ears are well-covered.
For pet safety, it is advised to bring animals indoors and provide a warm shelter; if they remain outside, ensure they have an enclosed space with the entrance facing away from the wind.
Regarding plants, it is recommended to bring potted plants indoors, place them in well-lit areas away from drafts, and keep outdoor trees and plants well-watered.
In homes, MDFR advises using central heating whenever possible. If electric heaters are used, they should be certified by accredited laboratories and approved by Underwriters Laboratories (UL).
Always follow the manufacturer's instructions, choose models with thermostats, overheat protection, and automatic shutoff if tipped over.
Other key points include keeping heaters clean, placing them on firm surfaces, avoiding use in damp areas, regularly inspecting cords, and plugging them directly into an outlet without makeshift extensions.
Additionally, keep any flammable objects at least three feet away from the heater, and establish a child and pet-free zone around the equipment.
Authorities emphasize not using charcoal, grills, or ovens to heat homes, turning off and unplugging heaters when leaving a room or going to sleep, and installing and maintaining smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors with functioning batteries.
In a message on X, MDFR encapsulated their advice with the "4 Ps of Cold Safety": look after vulnerable people, keep pets indoors, protect plants from the cold, and practice fire safety by inspecting heating equipment before use.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Cold Weather in Florida
What safety measures should be taken during cold weather in Florida?
To stay safe during cold weather, remain indoors as much as possible, monitor vulnerable groups, dress in layers, bring pets inside, protect plants, and use heating equipment properly to avoid fires and carbon monoxide exposure.
How does wind chill affect the perceived temperature in Florida?
Wind chill can make the air feel significantly colder than the actual temperature by increasing heat loss from exposed skin. In Florida, this can make temperatures in the 40s feel like they are in the 30s.