Jacksonville, FL – Residents across northeast Florida are waking up to the season’s first major cold snap this Veterans Day morning, as wind chills drop near 20 degrees and frost makes an early return. The National Weather Service (NWS) in Jacksonville has issued Cold Weather and Frost Advisories for Duval, Clay, and St. Johns Counties, warning residents to take precautions through Wednesday morning.
The Weather Event: Early Winter Chill Grips Jacksonville
Inland neighborhoods across Duval County and surrounding areas are seeing their coldest start since March, with temperatures hovering near the freezing mark in some low-lying locations. The NWS Cold Weather Advisory remains in effect through 8 a.m. today, as brisk northwesterly winds create wind chills in the lower 20s.
“We’re seeing the first widespread frost potential of the season,” forecasters said Tuesday. “Residents should protect sensitive plants, exposed pipes, and check on pets and elderly neighbors.”
As the sun rises over the St. Johns River, the clear skies and strong breezes make it feel even colder, reminding many that winter weather has officially arrived in north Florida.
Weather Advisory Details and Safety Recommendations
A Frost Advisory will follow late tonight through early Wednesday morning, when winds are expected to calm, allowing temperatures to drop close to freezing in sheltered inland areas.
The National Weather Service advises residents to:
- Cover sensitive plants and outdoor faucets.
- Bring pets indoors during overnight hours.
- Inspect space heaters for safety and ensure proper ventilation.
- Check on elderly neighbors and those without adequate heating.
These measures can prevent frost damage and cold-related illnesses, especially as the chill lingers into early Wednesday.
Forecast Overview: Cold Start Followed by Gradual Warming
Today’s Veterans Day forecast remains cold but sunny, with highs around 53°F and gusty winds keeping the air feeling cooler. Despite the chill, skies will stay clear — favorable for outdoor observances and parades throughout Jacksonville.
By Wednesday, temperatures will rebound quickly, with highs in the upper 60s, followed by a warming trend through the end of the week as high pressure builds along the Gulf Coast.
Here’s the five-day forecast for Jacksonville, according to the National Weather Service:
- Wednesday: 68° / 46° – Sunny; warmer afternoon, cool morning.
- Thursday: 73° / 49° – Mostly sunny; pleasant and dry.
- Friday: 74° / 54° – Sunny; light breeze, ideal outdoor day.
- Saturday: 76° / 54° – Mostly clear; continued warm trend.
- Sunday: 78° / 57° – Sunny; unseasonably warm and dry.
Reactions and Local Impact
The sudden temperature drop has residents pulling out coats and turning on heaters for the first time this season. Farmers and gardeners across northern Florida are also taking precautions to protect crops and seedlings from frost damage.
Local animal shelters have encouraged pet owners to limit outdoor time for cats and dogs during the early morning hours, while emergency services have urged caution with space heater use, a common cause of house fires during sudden cold snaps.
Background Context: Early Taste of Winter in the Sunshine State
While Florida is known for its mild climate, early November cold fronts are not unusual. However, forecasters note that this year’s early frost arrived slightly ahead of schedule, driven by arctic air spilling south from the Midwest.
Meteorologists say this system is part of a larger cold air mass sweeping across the eastern United States, with temperatures plunging 20–30 degrees below average in some regions.
“It’s a quick burst of winter for Florida,” one forecaster said, “but it won’t last long.”
Ongoing Developments and What’s Next
By the weekend, the cold air will retreat, replaced by milder, sunny conditions that are ideal for outdoor activities and early holiday preparations. Still, forecasters are keeping an eye on another possible cold front expected to approach late next week — one that could bring another round of frost and low temperatures just before Thanksgiving.
Conclusion
The first frost and biting wind chills have signaled the start of the cool season in Jacksonville, offering a brief but sharp reminder that winter isn’t far behind. Residents are encouraged to stay alert for overnight frost warnings, bundle up, and take preventive steps to protect homes, pets, and plants.
What are your thoughts on this early cold snap in Jacksonville? Share your experiences and weather updates in the comments below.
