Florida – A sharp chill settles over northeast Florida this morning as frost coats rooftops and grassy yards sparkle at sunrise. Cold air unusual for late December has pushed deep into the region, bringing freeze concerns just hours before the new year arrives.
According to the National Weather Service in Jacksonville, a Frost Advisory and Cold Weather Advisory remain in effect through mid-morning for coastal Duval, St. Johns, and Flagler counties. Temperatures dip as low as the lower 30s, while wind chills fall into the mid-20s. These conditions can damage sensitive plants and pose risks to pets and those outdoors too long.
In Jacksonville, Arlington, Riverside, and along the Intracoastal, residents should protect exposed vegetation and bring pets indoors. Drivers may notice slick patches on bridges and shaded roads early, especially near the St. Johns River. While widespread icing is not expected, cold metal surfaces and elevated roadways cool quickly.
Conditions improve fast later today. Sunshine takes over, and temperatures rebound into the mid-50s this afternoon. Winds remain breezy at times, but the worst of the cold eases by midday. New Year’s Day turns even warmer, with highs climbing into the low 60s under mostly sunny skies.
By Friday, northeast Florida feels almost springlike. Afternoon highs reach the mid to upper 60s, offering ideal weather for travel and outdoor plans. The first weekend of 2026 stays mild, though rain chances return Saturday with scattered showers and a possible thunderstorm. Roads may turn wet, but temperatures stay well above freezing.
For now, dress in layers this morning, protect plants, and check on vulnerable neighbors. Florida’s winter reminder is brief, but it arrives with impact. How cold did it feel in your neighborhood today?
Five-Day Outlook for Jacksonville, FL
- Today: Frost early, then sunny. High near 55°F.
- New Year’s Day: Patchy frost early, then sunny. High near 63°F.
- Friday: Partly sunny and warmer. High near 66°F.
- Saturday: Chance of showers and storms. High near 72°F.
- Sunday: Partly sunny. High near 63°F.
