A significant cold front is forecast to impact Orlando, Florida, beginning Saturday, bringing with it scattered rain showers during the morning and midday. Winds are expected to increase substantially throughout Saturday afternoon and overnight, potentially gusting between 30 and 40 mph.
When will coldest temperatures arrive in Orlando?
The most intense cold, measured by wind chill, is anticipated Sunday morning, with temperatures potentially dropping into the single digits and teens. While winds are expected to subside Sunday afternoon and evening, this calmer air will allow temperatures to fall even further by Monday morning. The lowest temperatures overall are predicted for early Monday, though the most dangerous wind chills will occur Sunday morning.
FOX 35 Storm Team Alerts are currently in effect for Sunday and Monday, anticipating potentially record-breaking cold. Temperatures could reach the low to mid-20s, with wind chills falling into the teens or lower.
Could it snow in Florida and where?
A rare possibility exists for snow flurries in two areas of Florida this weekend as a strong low-pressure system develops. The first chance for flurries is Saturday evening into overnight, potentially reaching Jacksonville or Flagler County. Sunday morning presents a more unusual scenario: “Gulf Effect” snow flurries, similar to those seen in the Great Lakes region.
What is Gulf effect snow?
Gulf-effect snow occurs when frigid air moves over the warmer waters of the Gulf of Mexico. This temperature contrast can create instability, leading to the formation of clouds and showers, and, under specific conditions, snow. The Gulf’s water temperatures are currently in the 60s, and the incoming Arctic air mass could create the necessary conditions for these flurries.
While Gulf effect snow is rare, forecasters suggest it’s possible Saturday night into Sunday morning, with areas including the Tampa region and western-central Florida potentially seeing a few flakes if conditions align. More specific forecasts are expected Friday as updated data becomes available.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the winds be strongest?
Winds will increase significantly Saturday afternoon through the overnight period, with gusts ranging from 30 to more than 40 mph.
Where are the snow flurries most likely to occur?
The first chance for flurries is Saturday evening into overnight in Jacksonville or Flagler County. Sunday morning, the Tampa region and western-central Florida could see flurries due to the “Gulf Effect.”
What should residents expect in terms of temperature?
Temperatures could fall into the low to mid-20s, with wind chills in the teens or lower, particularly Sunday morning and early Monday.
Given the potential for extremely cold temperatures and dangerous wind chills, how are you preparing for the weekend’s weather?
