The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a freeze warning for parts of South Florida, encompassing interior regions of Miami-Dade and Broward Counties, due to an exceptionally rare cold snap, according to reports from Telemundo.
This alert is effective from Sunday night through Monday morning, with temperatures expected to drop to around 31 degrees Fahrenheit (0 degrees Celsius), flirting with or dipping below the freezing point.
The NWS, in a statement on X, cautioned that the hazardous Arctic chill affecting much of the Eastern United States will persist for at least one more night before gradually retreating as the week progresses.
Understanding the Freeze Warning
A freeze warning signifies that when temperatures fall below 32°F for several hours, significant risks to infrastructure, agriculture, and health arise, particularly in areas where such conditions are typically uncommon, as highlighted by Telemundo.
Communities like Hialeah, Kendall, Miramar, Pembroke Pines, Davie, Hollywood, and Coral Springs might face:
- Hypothermia risk due to prolonged exposure
- Damage to sensitive plants and crops
- Potential for outdoor pipe bursts
- Increased vulnerability for elderly or those without heating
- Dangerous wind chills and strong gusts
A strong wind advisory remains in effect through early Sunday morning, with gusts up to 40 miles per hour, which could lead to falling branches, unsecured objects being blown away, and scattered power outages.
Record-Breaking Temperatures in South Florida
Miami recorded a low of 35°F, the coldest since January 2010, while Fort Lauderdale also dropped to 35°F, marking its coldest temperature in over ten years.
Elsewhere in the state, snowflakes were reported, particularly in the Tampa Bay area and Tallahassee, an extraordinarily rare occurrence.
Official Recommendations for Residents
Authorities urge the public to take precautionary measures:
Personal Protection
- Wear thermal clothing or multiple layers
- Use hats, gloves, and scarves
- Avoid extended outdoor exposure
- Check on vulnerable family and neighbors
Home Safety
- Protect sensitive plants
- Cover exposed pipes or allow them to drip slowly
- Secure outdoor items on patios and balconies due to gusts
Pet Care
- Keep pets indoors overnight
For assistance, those without heating or in need of help can call 211 for guidance and community services.
Although cold fronts are common in winter, freezing conditions remain rare in South Florida. The NWS will continue to monitor the situation and may issue further updates in the coming hours.
FAQs About the Unusual Freeze in South Florida
What areas in South Florida are affected by the freeze warning?
The freeze warning affects interior parts of Miami-Dade and Broward Counties, including communities like Hialeah, Kendall, Miramar, Pembroke Pines, Davie, Hollywood, and Coral Springs.
How low are temperatures expected to drop?
Temperatures are expected to dip to around 31 degrees Fahrenheit, which is near or below the freezing point.
What are the potential risks associated with this cold weather?
The risks include hypothermia from prolonged exposure, damage to sensitive plants and crops, potential pipe bursts, increased vulnerability for the elderly or those without heat, and dangerous wind chills and gusts.