Florida – Palm fronds barely move as crisp, unseasonable cold settles across Central Florida this morning. Lawns glitter with frost, breath shows briefly, and exposed plants take the brunt of a rare February chill.
According to the National Weather Service in Melbourne, Extreme Cold and Freeze Warnings remain in effect early today across much of east-central Florida. Temperatures dipped into the upper 20s and lower 30s before sunrise, with wind chills in the low 20s in spots. Areas of frost were reported from Orlando through Melbourne and along the Space Coast.
Conditions improve gradually after sunrise, but the cold lingers. Highs today recover into the mid-50s around Orlando and low 50s near Melbourne. That still runs well below early February normals. Shaded areas may stay cold longer, keeping frost damage concerns elevated through mid-morning.
Another chilly start arrives Tuesday. Patchy frost remains possible before 9 a.m., especially inland. Afternoon temperatures rebound more sharply, climbing into the low 60s with abundant sunshine. By Wednesday, warmer air surges back in fast, pushing highs into the low to mid-70s and ending the immediate freeze threat.
Travel impacts remain limited, but early commuters should watch for slick patches on bridges where condensation froze before sunrise. Homeowners are urged to protect tender plants, pets, and exposed pipes through the morning hours. Citrus growers and gardeners should continue cold precautions until temperatures stabilize.
Beyond midweek, scattered showers return Wednesday night into Thursday, followed by a pleasant stretch. Looking farther out, meteorologists see signals of above-normal warmth late next week, a sharp turnaround after this unusual winter punch.
Did frost show up in your yard this morning? Share what you’re seeing across Central Florida.
Five-Day Outlook for Orlando, FL
- Today: Frost early, sunny, high near 54
- Tuesday: Frost early, mostly sunny, high near 63
- Wednesday: Sunny, warmer, high near 73
- Thursday: Chance of showers, high near 61
- Friday: Sunny, high near 62
