Florida – Palm fronds rattle, flags snap hard, and a dry chill sweeps across Central Florida as an unusual winter blast tightens its grip this morning. Temperatures start mild, but conditions change fast as strong northwest winds usher in sharply colder air by evening.
According to the National Weather Service office serving east-central Florida, an Extreme Cold Warning, Freeze Warning, and Wind Advisory are all in effect. Winds increase through the day, with gusts over 30 mph possible. Temperatures fall quickly after sunset, dropping into the upper 20s by early Sunday across the Orlando metro, with wind chills dipping into the teens.
Travel impacts build as winds strengthen. High-profile vehicles on I-4, the Florida Turnpike, and Beachline Expressway may struggle in gusty conditions. Blowing debris and sudden crosswinds could make driving difficult through the afternoon and evening. Outdoor plans should be wrapped up early as conditions deteriorate.
The bigger concern arrives after dark. Clear skies and diminishing winds allow temperatures to plunge. Exposed pipes, sensitive plants, and pets face real risk. Residents are urged to cover vegetation, drip faucets, and bring animals indoors. Mobile homes and poorly insulated structures cool rapidly under these conditions.
Sunday brings bright sun, but the cold lingers. Highs reach only the mid-40s, well below normal. Another cold night follows, with lows near freezing again before gradual warming begins Monday. By Tuesday, temperatures rebound into the 60s, offering brief relief before another front approaches midweek.
Looking ahead to the first week of February, longer-range outlooks suggest fluctuating temperatures and limited rainfall, but sharp cold fronts remain possible. Meteorologists continue tracking changes closely.
If you are heading out today, secure loose items, plan for strong winds, and prepare for freezing temperatures tonight. How cold did it feel in your neighborhood as the wind picked up?
Five-Day Weather Outlook for Orlando, FL
- Today: Windy, partly sunny. High near 57°F.
- Sunday: Sunny and cold. High near 46°F.
- Monday: Sunny. High near 55°F.
- Tuesday: Sunny and milder. High near 63°F.
- Wednesday: Mostly sunny. High near 71°F.
