Florida Freezes Again: Arctic Blast Hits

Florida residents are facing another round of cold weather as a cold front approaches the Panhandle on February 4th and moves across the state on February 5th. This new blast of Arctic air is expected to bring sub-freezing temperatures to northern and central Florida, though not as extreme as the record lows experienced over the past weekend. AccuWeather meteorologist Brandon Buckingham noted that temperatures will be 5 to 10 degrees higher than the previous frigid period, but wind chill will make it feel colder.

Ahead of the cold temperatures, some much-needed rain is expected to move through the state. This rainfall is welcome news, as more than 90% of Florida is currently experiencing drought conditions, with the most severe impacts in the central Panhandle and Big Bend areas. Despite the rain, drought conditions are expected to worsen this week due to a prolonged lack of beneficial rainfall.

Unlike the previous cold snap, this front is not anticipated to bring snow flurries. While no cold-related advisories were in effect as of February 4th, the Florida Division of Emergency Management suggests that cold weather advisories and freeze warnings may be issued for Northeast Florida and parts of interior South Florida by Thursday night or Friday morning. Looking ahead, warmer temperatures are predicted for mid- to late next week, with a possibility of another cold front around mid-February.