Tampa, Florida – Residents across west central and southwest Florida are facing a rare and potentially damaging freeze as temperatures plunge overnight, putting crops, pets, and unprotected plumbing at risk through Friday morning.
According to the National Weather Service in Tampa Bay, a Freeze Warning and Cold Weather Advisory remain in effect from 1 a.m. to 9 a.m. Friday for much of the region. Inland areas could see temperatures drop as low as 24 degrees, with wind chills falling to around 22 degrees in exposed locations.
The coldest conditions are expected away from the immediate coast, impacting inland Hillsborough, Polk, Hardee, Highlands, DeSoto, Sumter, Manatee, and Pasco counties. Cities including Lakeland, Winter Haven, Plant City, Brandon, Zephyrhills, Sebring, Arcadia, and The Villages are likely to see several hours below freezing. Coastal communities such as Brooksville, Crystal River, Cedar Key, Hudson, and Hernando Beach will be slightly milder but still cold enough for frost.
The freeze poses a serious threat to sensitive vegetation, citrus, and winter crops, and could damage unprotected outdoor pipes. Residents are urged to cover plants, bring pets indoors, and drip faucets where needed. Those heading out early Friday should dress in layers, including hats and gloves.
Temperatures are expected to rebound later Friday morning, but additional cold weather advisories could be issued if conditions persist into the weekend.
