Northeast Florida and Southeast Georgia are experiencing a prolonged period of unusually cold weather. Temperatures began in the upper teens and twenties, with wind chills dropping into the single digits this morning. While an extreme cold warning expired at 10:04 a.m., a freeze warning remained in effect through noon, and another hard freeze is anticipated tonight with lows near 22 or 25 degrees.
Cause of the Cold
A strong low pressure system off the Carolinas is responsible for dragging an Arctic air mass into the region. Winds out of the northwest, gusting up to 25 mph, are contributing to the bitter cold. The pattern is expected to persist for at least a couple more nights before temperatures begin to normalize.
Impacts and Safety Measures
The cold snap is causing disruptions across the region. Frozen pipes are a concern, with reports of at least one neighbor experiencing a freeze this morning. Airport delays and cancellations are also occurring, due to weather conditions both locally and further north. Residents are advised to stay warm and safe, and warming centers are open, including the Legend Center in Jacksonville, operating nightly from 9 p.m. to 9 a.m. and extending hours until noon on Monday.
City buses are offering free transportation to the Legend Center. Residents are encouraged to take precautions such as letting faucets drip and checking on neighbors and pets.
Community Response
Despite the harsh conditions, community spirit remains strong. Residents have shared photos and videos of rare snow flurries, and many continued to support events like The Donna event. Photos of the weather can be shared at https://www.news4jax.com/snapjax/.
Looking Ahead
While another hard freeze is expected tonight, temperatures could climb to around 70 degrees by Wednesday, though this warming trend is expected to be brief. A chance of rain is possible mid-week, followed by another cool down, with temperatures potentially returning to the 60s by Friday. Residents should continue to monitor forecasts for low morning temperatures.
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the current cold snap?
A strong low pressure system off the Carolinas is dragging in an unusually cold Arctic air mass over northeast Florida and southeast Georgia.
Where can I find a warming center in Jacksonville?
The Legend Center is open nightly from 9 p.m. to 9 a.m., with extended hours until noon on Monday.
What should I do to protect my home from the cold?
Residents are advised to let faucets drip and check on neighbors and pets.
How has this cold weather impacted your community, and what steps are you taking to stay safe and warm?
Worth a look
