Central Florida – Large portions of central and east Florida are under a Cold Weather Advisory as unusually cold air settles across the region late Tuesday night into early Wednesday, according to the National Weather Service office in Melbourne.
Cold Weather Advisory Details
Forecasters say wind chills are expected to fall between 26 and 27 degrees across a wide area, prompting a Cold Weather Advisory in effect from 1 a.m. to 9 a.m. EST Wednesday.
The advisory covers multiple counties, including:
- Orange
- Seminole
- Osceola
- Brevard
- Indian River
- St. Lucie
- Martin
- Okeechobee
- Volusia
- Lake
Both inland and coastal communities are expected to feel the impact, with brisk winds making temperatures feel significantly colder than actual readings.
Freeze Watch for Inland Areas
In addition to the advisory, a Freeze Watch remains in effect for inland Volusia and Lake counties, where overnight air temperatures could dip to around 31 degrees late Tuesday night through Wednesday morning.
Meteorologists caution that these conditions could lead to frost formation or localized freezing, especially in sheltered inland locations where winds may be lighter and cold air can pool near the ground.
Health and Safety Concerns
The National Weather Service warns that wind chills in the mid-20s can be hazardous, particularly for:
- Children
- Older adults
- People without adequate heating or shelter
- Outdoor workers
Prolonged exposure to cold temperatures increases the risk of hypothermia, even in Florida where residents may not be accustomed to such conditions.
Risks to Plants, Pets, and Property
Cold-sensitive vegetation and agricultural crops could suffer damage during the overnight hours. Officials also caution that unprotected outdoor plumbing may freeze in areas that briefly reach or fall below the freezing mark.
Residents are encouraged to take preventive steps, including:
- Bringing pets indoors overnight
- Covering or moving tender plants
- Protecting exposed pipes
- Checking on neighbors who may need assistance
Heater and Generator Safety Reminders
Local officials also emphasize safe heating practices. Residents using space heaters should keep them away from flammable materials and never leave them unattended. Grills, generators, and fuel-burning heaters should never be operated indoors, as they pose a serious carbon monoxide risk.
What to Expect Next
Temperatures are expected to gradually rise after sunrise Wednesday, easing the immediate cold threat by mid-morning. However, forecasters advise residents to continue monitoring updates in case the advisory is extended or upgraded to a freeze warning.
As Florida experiences one of its colder mornings of the season, officials urge everyone to take the advisory seriously and prepare for the overnight chill.
Share how you’re preparing for the cold weather in your area in the comments below.
