Lakeland, Florida – Residents across inland west central and southwest Florida have a narrow six-hour window overnight to protect sensitive plants as temperatures dip into the lower to mid-30s by 2 a.m. Wednesday, creating widespread frost potential before sunrise.
According to the National Weather Service in Tampa Bay, a Frost Advisory remains in effect from 2 a.m. until 8 a.m. Wednesday for 15 inland counties, including Polk, Sumter, Highlands, Hardee, DeSoto, and inland portions of Hillsborough, Pasco, Manatee and Sarasota. Clear skies and light winds will allow temperatures to fall quickly, especially in low-lying and rural areas.
Cities such as Lakeland, Winter Haven, Sebring, Brooksville, Dade City and Plant City could see readings between 32 and 36 degrees. In The Villages, Arcadia, Wauchula and Lakewood Ranch, frost may form on exposed surfaces, including car roofs and lawns. While no road impacts are expected, agricultural areas and backyard gardens face the greatest risk.
Gardeners should cover tender vegetation with cloth sheets, move potted plants indoors and avoid using plastic directly on foliage. Residents with outdoor pets should also ensure adequate shelter from the chill.
Temperatures rebound quickly after 8 a.m., but additional advisories remain possible if clear skies persist into midweek.
