Florida – Cold air clings low to the ground this morning, frosting lawns and chilling palm fronds in a way that feels out of place. Breath turns visible, car windows fog fast, and central Florida wakes up to a rare winter jolt.
According to the National Weather Service in Melbourne, a Freeze Warning remains in effect from midnight through mid-morning across inland Volusia, Orange, Seminole, Osceola, Lake, and Okeechobee counties. Temperatures may fall to around 30 degrees, with wind chills dipping into the mid-20s in rural spots. A Cold Weather Advisory also covers the region through the morning hours.
This cold snap poses risks well beyond discomfort. Sensitive plants and crops may suffer damage. Unprotected outdoor pipes could freeze. Prolonged exposure increases the risk of hypothermia, especially for those without adequate heating. Residents are urged to bring pets indoors, protect tender vegetation, and check on elderly neighbors.
In the Melbourne area, clear skies and light winds allow temperatures to fall efficiently. Patchy frost develops before sunrise, especially away from the coast. Roads generally remain dry, but drivers should watch shaded bridges where brief slick spots are possible early. As the sun climbs, temperatures rebound quickly, climbing into the mid-60s by afternoon.
The chill does not linger long. By Friday, sunshine dominates and highs push near 70. A weak disturbance may bring a few light showers late Friday into Saturday, followed by gusty winds and cooler nights. Another dip into the 20s arrives Saturday night before gradual moderation early next week.
This freeze ties into a broader Arctic push across the eastern U.S., while much warmer air builds across the Southeast by early February.
Freeze headlines expire later this morning, but more cold mornings remain possible. Did you see frost where you live? Share what temperatures felt like at sunrise.
Five Day Outlook for Melbourne, Florida
- Today: Patchy frost early, then sunny. High near 65.
- Friday: Sunny and warmer. High near 70.
- Saturday: Slight chance of showers, breezy. High near 58.
- Sunday: Sunny and cooler. High near 48.
- Monday: Mostly sunny, moderating. High near 55.
