Orlando, Fla. – Central Florida is experiencing a significant drop in temperatures as a strong cold front moves through the region, creating an unusually chillier atmosphere for late December. On Tuesday, residents can expect daytime highs to only reach the upper 50s, while gusty northwest winds will make it feel even colder than the thermometer indicates.
To prepare for the frigid conditions, a Freeze Warning has been issued for Flagler, Lake, Marion, and Volusia counties from 1 a.m. to 9 a.m. on Wednesday. Additionally, a Freeze Watch is active for Sumter County, anticipated from late Tuesday night through Wednesday morning.
As the front brings in extremely dry air, the risk of fire hazards rises for both Tuesday and Wednesday. The temperatures will drop significantly overnight, with lows across Central Florida expected to plunge into the 30s by New Year’s morning. Areas in Marion, Lake, Sumter, and inland Volusia counties may experience temperatures dipping below freezing.
Wind-chill factors will further exacerbate the cold, pushing values down into the upper 20s to lower 30s. Consequently, a Cold Weather Advisory has been issued for all of Central Florida for Wednesday morning, as the cold can pose risks to those without proper shelter or warm clothing.
Looking forward to New Year’s Eve, the cold spell will persist, with highs remaining well below normal. By midnight, temperatures are predicted to hover in the 30s and 40s. However, there is a silver lining, as gradual warming trends are expected to develop late in the week, bringing temperatures back up into the 70s by the weekend.
As Central Florida residents brace for the chill, it’s a good time to stay informed and take precautions to ensure safety during this cold snap.