Orlando, FL – Florida is heading into a warm, quiet, and travel-friendly weather pattern from December 18–24, with NOAA’s long-range outlook showing above-normal temperatures and below-normal precipitation across the state. For residents and holiday travelers, this means sunshine, light breezes, and minimal weather disruptions heading toward Christmas Eve.
According to NOAA, temperatures statewide—including Orlando, Tampa, Miami, Jacksonville, Tallahassee, Gainesville, and Destin—will run well above average for late December. Afternoon highs are expected to reach the mid-70s to low 80s, with humid conditions at times but no significant storm activity.
The below-normal precipitation outlook suggests only isolated showers, primarily along the east coast or areas influenced by sea breezes. Any rainfall that does occur will be brief, light, and highly localized.
Across South Florida, including Miami, Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach, and the Keys, warm and dry conditions dominate, with temperatures staying in the upper 70s to low 80s each afternoon. Travel along I-95, U.S. 1, and the Turnpike should remain smooth aside from occasional coastal showers.
The Gulf Coast—including Tampa Bay, Fort Myers, Naples, Sarasota, and Pensacola—enjoys similarly dry and warm weather. Patchy morning fog may pose the only travel concern, especially December 20–22.
In North Florida—Jacksonville, Lake City, Tallahassee, and the Panhandle—temperatures remain mild, with highs in the upper 60s to mid-70s. A weak system passing north of the state may bring a brief sprinkle to the Panhandle, but widespread rainfall remains unlikely.
Overall, Florida is positioned for one of the warmest and driest Christmas travel periods in the U.S., with no winter hazards and almost no rainfall expected.
