South Florida Braces for Rare Cold Snap: Freeze Warning Issued

MIAMI, Florida – Residents across South Florida are preparing for an unusually chilly night as a strong cold front pushes through the region, bringing temperatures well below seasonal averages.

The National Weather Service (NWS) Miami office has issued a Freeze Warning for Glades and Hendry counties, with lows expected to dip near 30°F in areas around Lake Okeechobee, according to NWS Miami.

A broader Cold Weather Advisory covers much of the area, including Miami-Dade and Broward counties, where wind chills could make it feel as low as the upper 30s, according to NWS Miami.

The cold air is set to arrive late Thursday night into Friday morning, with metro areas like Miami and Fort Lauderdale anticipating lows in the upper 30s to low 40s. This marks a significant drop from today’s highs, which ranged from 66°F inland to 75°F along the coast.

Before the cold settles in, expect scattered showers and possible storms today, with rain chances peaking at 83% in areas like Naples and Immokalee, according to NWS Miami.

NWS forecasts indicate a 40-60% probability of sub-freezing temperatures just west of Lake Okeechobee on Friday morning.

Potential Impacts on Wildlife, Agriculture, and Residents

This cold snap could have notable effects on local wildlife and agriculture. In past similar events, green iguanas – an invasive species common in South Florida – have been known to become stunned by the cold, causing them to fall from trees. Experts advise residents to leave fallen iguanas alone, as they often recover when temperatures rise, reports FOX 13 Tampa Bay.

Citrus growers in inland counties are on alert, as temperatures below 32°F pose a risk to crops, according to Florida Citrus Mutual via AndNowUKnow. The Florida Department of Emergency Management has highlighted the potential for damage to sensitive plants in their latest outlook.

For vulnerable populations, several counties are activating cold weather shelters. In Broward County, warming centers will open for the homeless and others in need, operating from Thursday evening through Friday morning, reports CBS News Miami. Residents are urged to check on elderly neighbors and bring pets indoors.