A sharp drop in temperatures is expected in parts of Central Florida as a strong cold front moves through the region, bringing the coldest air in years.
A front usually replaces warm air with much cooler, drier conditions, accompanied by gusty winds. This could often lead to temperatures near or below freezing in certain areas, depending on the intensity of the front.
In Central Florida, a winter front is reported to be moving through the area Thursday morning and should clear by afternoon. Once the front passes, the region will experience a significant drop in temperatures, marking the start of a major cold snap, according to a WFTV report.
Freeze warning issued for Central Florida
Florida has experienced an extended period of unseasonably warm December weather, but with an incoming system, some areas could see near-freezing conditions in the coming days.
A freeze warning has already been issued for nearly all parts of Central Florida, except for areas east of Interstate 95 in Brevard County, the release said.
A frost warning remains in effect from 1am to 9am on Friday 16 January. Forecasters warn widespread frost is likely to arrive by Friday morning, with lows expected to drop below freezing in many areas.
Residents are advised to take precautions such as covering sensitive plants, protecting pets and ensuring outdoor pipes are insulated as the sudden cold snap could cause damage to vulnerable vegetation and property.
Another cold front on the horizon
Wind chill factors will make the cold weather even more harsh, with temperatures expected to be in the upper 20s early Friday morning, making it feel even colder than the actual temperature.
However, Friday afternoon is forecast to be sunny, with highs in the 50s and lows in the 60s. This warm-up follows a cold start for many communities across Central Florida as a winter front moves through.
Temperatures are expected to bounce back into the low 70s on Saturday, bringing a brief respite from the cold. However, another cold front will sweep through the region by Sunday.
Many residents of the Central Florida region will wake up to temperatures in the 30s again Monday and Tuesday morning due to a second cold front, WFTV reported.
