This weekend, Florida is poised to experience its coldest temperatures in 15 years, with Miami expected to reach the freezing point of 32 degrees Fahrenheit (0 degrees Celsius). This comes after the region had largely been spared from the harsh winter storm that recently impacted much of the United States.
The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a freeze warning for Glades County, located in the southwestern part of the state. The cold front is anticipated to bring below-freezing temperatures to several areas in southern Florida, according to reports from EFE.
Forecasts indicate that temperatures may dip to 28 degrees Fahrenheit (-2 degrees Celsius) in Miami and Fort Lauderdale, and could plummet to 21 degrees Fahrenheit (-6 degrees Celsius) in West Palm Beach. Such lows have not been recorded in over a decade.
"Widespread areas with temperatures near or below freezing are expected in southern Florida on Sunday and Monday," stated the NWS office in Miami. They also warned of potential rain from Wednesday through Friday as part of the ongoing cold front.
While Florida had previously remained an outlier amidst the winter storm that claimed at least 34 lives and left over half a million homes without power across two-thirds of the United States, the meteorological body confirmed that the Arctic front will indeed reach the "Sunshine State," ushering in a week of chilly mornings and unusually cold days.
"Florida has decided to join in on winter," quipped the NWS office in Tampa, predicting further temperature drops starting Friday night and extending the cold weather into the following week.
Meteorologists advise residents to safeguard plants, animals, and pipes, and to avoid prolonged exposure to the cold during the early morning hours.
Freezing Temperatures in Florida: What You Need to Know
How cold will it get in Miami this weekend?
Miami is expected to reach a low of 32 degrees Fahrenheit (0 degrees Celsius) this weekend, marking the coldest temperature in 15 years.
What precautions should be taken during the cold snap?
Residents are advised to protect plants, animals, and pipes from freezing temperatures and to limit time spent outdoors during the coldest hours.
Which areas in Florida are most affected by the cold front?
The cold front is expected to impact southern Florida, particularly in areas like Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and West Palm Beach.