A dangerous outbreak of cold, wind, and marine hazards will impact West-Central and Southwest Florida this weekend, prompting multiple weather warnings and advisories.
According to the National Weather Service Tampa Bay Area, Cold, Freeze, and Extreme Cold Warnings are in effect from Saturday evening through Sunday morning for much of North, Central, and South Florida. Forecasters warn that hard freeze temperatures could drop as low as 20 degrees, with wind chills falling below 10 degrees in northern portions of the region.
An Extreme Cold/Freeze Warning covers inland areas from Brooksville to Lakeland and Arcadia, while coastal and southern locations remain under Freeze Warnings or Cold Weather Advisories. These conditions pose a serious risk of frostbite and hypothermia, especially for anyone outdoors for extended periods. Freezing temperatures may also kill crops, damage sensitive vegetation, and rupture unprotected outdoor plumbing, a significant concern for agricultural and residential areas.
Strong winds will compound the cold. A Wind Advisory is in effect from Saturday afternoon through Sunday morning for all of West-Central and Southwest Florida, including the I-75 and US-41 corridors. Sustained winds of 20 to 40 mph, with gusts reaching 35 to 50 mph, may down tree limbs, blow around unsecured objects, and cause isolated power outages. High-profile vehicles could experience hazardous driving conditions.
Marine conditions will be especially dangerous. A Gale Warning is in effect for all coastal waters from Saturday morning through Sunday morning, with northwest winds of 30 to 40 knots, gusts up to 45 knots, and seas building to 10 to 15 feet. Mariners are urged to remain in port or seek safe harbor.
Residents are advised to complete preparations before Saturday evening, protect people, pets, plants, and pipes, secure loose outdoor items, and avoid unnecessary travel during peak impacts.
