Numerous counties in Florida can expect bitterly cold temperatures on Thursday.
Freeze watches and cold weather advisories have been issued by the National Weather Service (NWS) for parts of the Florida Panhandle, as well as northern and northeastern Florida.
The NWS warned that sub-freezing temperatures as low as the middle 20s are possible on Thursday evening, which will pose a risk of hypothermia and frostbite.
Why It Matters
Freezing temperatures may present health risks, particularly for vulnerable groups such as infants, older adults and the homeless.
The NWS has also warned that freezing conditions present a risk to pets, sensitive vegetation, and could cause pipes to burst.
What To Know
Freeze Watch
At the time of writing, the NWS has freeze watches in place for the following Florida counties from Thursday evening to Friday morning:
- Hamilton
- Suwannee
- Columbia
- Gilchrist
- Union
- Baker
- Alachua
- Bradford
- Nassau
- Duval
- Clay
- Putnam
- Marion
The NWS issues freeze watches “when there is a potential for significant, widespread freezing temperatures within the next 24-36 hours.”
The service said sub-freezing temperatures as low as the middle 20s to around 30 degrees are possible in portions of northern and northeast Florida late Thursday night through Friday morning.
“Appropriate action should be taken to ensure tender vegetation and outdoor pets have adequate protection from the cold temperatures,” the NWS said.
“Young children, the elderly and the homeless are especially vulnerable to the cold. Take measures to protect them.”
Cold Weather Advisory
As of Wednesday morning, cold weather advisories were in effect in the following counties:
- Escambia
- Santa Rosa
- Okaloosa
- Walton
- Holmes
- Washington
- Bay
- Jackson
Cold weather advisories are issued “when seasonably cold air temperatures or wind chill values, but not extremely cold values, are expected or occurring.”
The NWS said “very cold” wind chills as low as 10 degrees were expect in northwest Florida.
It warned that frostbite and hypothermia could occur if unprotected skin is exposed to these temperatures.
It advised people to wear appropriate clothing for very cold weather, and to keep pets indoors as much as possible.
What Happens Next
At the time of writing, the freeze watch was in effect through Friday morning, while the cold weather advisory was in place until 9 a.m. on Thursday.
Forecasts are subject to change, with the NWS posting regular updates on its website and on social media.
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