A cold front swept through the Southeast on Friday, triggering a dramatic temperature drop and prompting the National Weather Service (NWS) to issue freeze warnings for northern Florida.
The NWS Jacksonville office cautioned that regions across northern Florida and southern Georgia would face colder-than-usual weather from 11 p.m. ET on Friday through 9 a.m. Saturday. The warning highlighted potential impacts on vulnerable populations, pets, plants, and infrastructure.
Areas Affected
The freeze warning spanned over ten counties in northern Florida, including cities such as Gainesville, Live Oak, Williston, and Newberry. Waycross, Georgia, was also included. The coldest conditions were expected in inland areas, with overnight temperatures plunging below 30°F, reaching the mid-20s in some locations. Earlier in the day, temperatures in the affected areas ranged from the 50s to 60s.
Protective Measures Urged
The NWS urged residents to take precautions:
- Protect outdoor pets and livestock from the cold.
- Safeguard young children, the elderly, and individuals experiencing homelessness.
- Prevent water pipes from freezing by insulating, draining, or letting them drip slowly.
- Cover or bring indoors tender plants that could be damaged by freezing temperatures.
The advisory emphasized that temperatures below 28°F for prolonged periods pose a significant risk to pipes, vegetation, and vulnerable individuals.
Timeline of Cold Weather
This freeze warning marked the area’s first significant cold snap of the season, arriving about a week earlier than usual. While Friday and Saturday brought freezing conditions, temperatures were expected to rise steadily, reaching the 30s on Saturday night and returning to the 50s by Monday. Despite the frigid weather, snowfall was not forecasted in Florida during this cold snap.
Rare Freeze, Significant Impact
Freezing temperatures are infrequent in Florida compared to other regions, but their impacts can be severe due to limited preparation. According to the Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM), Florida homes often lack adequate heating and insulation, increasing the risk of hypothermia and other cold-related issues.
“During the harsh winter of 1989–1990, 26 Floridians died of hypothermia,” the FDEM website notes. “Because of the state’s normally mild climate, severe cold outbreaks present unique challenges.”
The NWS defines a freeze warning as an alert issued when “significant, widespread freezing temperatures are expected.” Such events, though rare, occur in Florida at least once a year, underscoring the importance of preparation.
As the cold front moves on, northern Florida residents are advised to remain vigilant, protect themselves and their property, and stay updated with the latest weather advisories.
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