Miami, Fla. — A Cold Weather Advisory is in effect across portions of South Florida early Friday morning as temperatures and wind chills fall to levels uncommon for the region following the passage of a cold front.
The National Weather Service in Miami reports that clear skies and calm conditions overnight allowed strong radiational cooling, sending temperatures into the upper 30s to low 40s across interior and western areas. When combined with light winds, wind chills have dropped into the low to mid-30s, prompting the advisory, which remains in effect until 9 a.m. Friday.
Counties included in the advisory span Glades, Hendry, inland Collier, inland Palm Beach, inland Broward, and inland Miami-Dade, with the coldest conditions focused near Lake Okeechobee and away from the immediate coastline. Motorists traveling along U.S. 27, U.S. 41, U.S. 1, and I-75 may notice brisk, chilly conditions during the early morning commute.
While no wintry precipitation is expected, residents are urged to take precautions. Sensitive plants may experience cold stress, and pets should be brought indoors. Those without adequate heating, especially in rural or agricultural areas, are encouraged to dress in layers to prevent cold-related discomfort.
Conditions will improve quickly as the sun rises. By late morning and into the afternoon, temperatures are forecast to rebound into the lower to mid-60s, with lighter winds and sunny skies dominating the remainder of the day.
This cold snap is expected to be short-lived, with warmer and more typical South Florida temperatures returning over the weekend. Still, officials remind residents that even brief cold events can pose risks in a region unaccustomed to near-freezing wind chills.
Stay tuned to the National Weather Service for updates, especially if traveling early this morning or caring for vulnerable people, pets, or plants.
