Clewiston, Florida – Inland South Florida communities are bracing for a rare and potentially damaging cold snap overnight as temperatures fall to freezing levels, threatening crops, pets, and exposed plumbing through Friday morning.
According to the National Weather Service in Miami, a Freeze Warning remains in effect for Glades and Hendry counties from 3 a.m. to 9 a.m. Friday, alongside a broader Cold Weather Advisory covering much of South Florida. Temperatures in the hardest-hit areas could drop as low as 30 degrees, with wind chills falling into the mid-20s.
The coldest conditions are expected across rural and agricultural areas including Clewiston, Moore Haven, Palmdale, Buckhead Ridge, Lakeport, Muse, Felda, and Brighton Seminole. These communities may see several hours of freezing temperatures, increasing the risk of frost damage to crops and sensitive vegetation. Outdoor plumbing could also be impacted if not properly protected.
Officials urge residents to bring pets indoors, cover tender plants, and ensure outdoor animals have warm shelter and unfrozen water. Those traveling early Friday should wear layered clothing, hats, and gloves to reduce the risk of hypothermia. Portable heaters should be used cautiously, and generators or grills should never be operated indoors.
Temperatures are expected to rise after sunrise Friday, but additional cold weather statements may be issued if chilly conditions linger into the weekend. Residents should continue monitoring updates from local officials.
