Portions of northern Florida are facing a frost advisory and freeze watch on Friday night and into Saturday morning as temperatures are expected to drop into the low 20s and 30s.
Florida, usually known for its subtropical climate, is facing an uncommon cold snap. The weather event is significant for its potential impact on residents unaccustomed to freezing conditions, agriculture, infrastructure, and even local wildlife.
Hazardous wind chills, a rare possibility of snow, and unique phenomena such as falling iguanas combine to present potential safety and economic risks throughout the state. Public officials are issuing alerts and guidance to help Floridians prepare and respond safely to the unusual cold.
According to the National Weather Service (NWS), the frost advisory is going into place for cities including Lake City, Gainesville and Ocala from 11 p.m. to 8 a.m. Saturday. A freeze watch is also going into effect for coastal areas, including Jacksonville, St. Augustine, and Ponte Vedra Beach.
Portions of the state facing the freeze watch could see temperatures as low as 23 degrees. Those under the frost advisory could see temperatures dip to 33 degrees, the NWS says.
Below is a map showing the areas impacted by the dropping temperatures:
NWS Meteorologist Frank Pereira told Newsweek via phone on Friday, “For those that are not acclimated, those especially vulnerable, we encourage them to seek shelter, including pets, elderly, homeless, they should take measures to protect themselves.”
Pereira added that there will be cold temperatures Saturday morning, and another “cold shot” will potentially impact the state on Sunday night into Monday. Temperatures will remain cooler into the beginning of next week as well.
The frost advisory says in part that, “Appropriate action should be taken to ensure tender vegetation and outdoor pets have adequate protection from the cold temperatures. Young children, the elderly and the homeless are especially vulnerable to the cold. Take measures to protect them. Frost could harm sensitive outdoor vegetation. Sensitive outdoor plants may be killed if left uncovered.”
NWS Jacksonville on Friday morning noted the cooler weather impacting the region this week, saying, “Record breaking cold is ongoing this morning across our region. At 5 AM, daily records have been broken at Alma, GA, with the daily record at Jacksonville tied”. The post continued, “Freeze warnings and cold weather advisories remain posted through 9 AM this morning.”
