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Florida's Weather Whiplash: Spring Heat to Winter Chill
18 Feb
Summary
- Record high temperatures will be followed by a significant drop.
- Florida's Panhandle could see temperatures in the 30s and 40s.
- Wildfire risk is heightened due to dry northwest winds.
Florida residents are advised to prepare for a significant seasonal swing as a powerful cold front is expected to bring winter-like temperatures after a period of record-breaking spring warmth. On Friday, February 20th, some areas of the Sunshine State may experience highs up to 15 degrees above normal, with cities like Jacksonville potentially reaching 86 degrees.
However, this warmth will be short-lived. By Monday morning, February 23rd, temperatures in the Panhandle could plummet into the 30s and 40s. Southern Florida will also experience a sharp decline, with Miami seeing lows in the 50s and Naples in the 40s. Daytime highs early in the week are predicted to only reach the 60s in South Florida and the 50s in North Florida.
This sharp temperature drop is accompanied by heightened concerns for wildfires. The cold front is expected to be driven by dry northwest winds, and 35 Florida counties are currently under burn bans. A significant portion of the state is experiencing drought conditions, with some areas in extreme drought, further increasing wildfire risk. Meteorologists note that while this cold front is not anticipated to be a significant rainmaker, the wildfire risk will be closely monitored.
