Central Florida Braces for Coldest Air of the Season with Freeze Warnings

Central Florida is experiencing its coldest air of the season, with freeze and frost warnings in effect across the region. Temperatures on Thursday morning are expected to feel like the 20s and 30s due to wind chill, prompting officials to issue cold weather advisories and freeze warnings for several counties, including Marion, Lake, and Volusia.

As of Wednesday morning, wind chill values in Orlando felt like 34 degrees, while Ocala and Palm Coast experienced feels-like temperatures in the low 30s. The National Weather Service has declared ‘Impact Weather’ conditions until 9 a.m. Thursday, urging residents to prepare for the coldest temperatures of the season. ‘It feels cold outside right now,’ said Kellianne Klass, a meteorologist with WESH 2 News. ‘We’re going to be watching that freeze possible north and west of I-4.’

Thursday morning is expected to bring even colder conditions, with temperatures dropping into the 30s and 40s across Central Florida. Orlando is forecast to reach a high of only 53 degrees, while Palm Coast may struggle to climb above 51 degrees. Wind speeds of 10 to 15 mph will exacerbate the cold, making it feel even chillier. ‘Plan ahead this afternoon and evening to ensure that you protect the 4 P’s: People, Pets, Pipes, and Plants,’ advised the National Weather Service in Melbourne.

Residents are advised to bundle up in heavy winter jackets, hats, and gloves, especially for morning commutes and school drop-offs. While sunshine is expected during the day, temperatures will remain well below average for this time of year. A cold front arriving Saturday will bring scattered showers and cooler air, with highs in the 60s and morning lows in the 40s.

This cold snap is part of a larger arctic blast affecting much of the southeastern United States. While Central Florida will avoid the wintry precipitation seen in Texas, the region will continue to experience unseasonably cold weather through the weekend. Meteorologists recommend staying updated with local forecasts and taking precautions to protect against the cold.