Florida – A sharp chill cuts through the morning air, signaling a rare winter threat for the Sunshine State. After a mild start, colder winds surge south, setting the stage for a significant temperature drop across northeast Florida.
According to the National Weather Service in Jacksonville, a Freeze Watch is in effect from Thursday evening through Friday morning for much of northeast and north-central Florida, including Jacksonville. Sub-freezing temperatures as low as the low 20s are possible in inland areas, with widespread frost expected closer to the coast.
Conditions change quickly Thursday night. Skies clear, winds ease, and temperatures fall fast. That combination creates ideal conditions for frost and freezing temperatures, especially away from the beaches. Sensitive vegetation, outdoor pets, and exposed plumbing face the greatest risk.
Jacksonville residents should prepare now. Cover plants, bring pets indoors, and insulate outdoor pipes. Allowing faucets to drip slowly overnight can help prevent pipes from freezing. Those without adequate heating should seek warm shelter, as prolonged exposure could be dangerous.
Friday starts cold but improves steadily. Morning frost gives way to sunshine, with highs recovering into the mid-50s. Despite the rebound, lingering cold ground temperatures may keep shaded areas slick early, especially on bridges and elevated roadways.
The weekend turns noticeably warmer. Saturday brings mostly sunny skies and highs in the mid-60s, offering quick relief after the cold snap. Sunday remains mild, though another cool night is possible inland.
Looking ahead to Jan. 19–23, NOAA outlooks suggest near-normal precipitation and temperatures gradually moderating across Florida, reducing the threat of additional freezes for now.
Cold mornings are unusual here. How low did temperatures drop in your neighborhood?
Five Day Weather Outlook for Jacksonville, Florida
• Today: Mostly cloudy, breezy. High near 63.
• Thursday: Sunny and windy. High near 53.
• Friday: Morning frost, then sunny. High near 55.
• Saturday: Mostly sunny and warmer. High near 66.
• Sunday: Sunny. High near 55.
