Residents of Orlando and surrounding areas are gearing up for a temperature drop as a strong cold front pushes through the region. According to the National Weather Service in Melbourne, FL, colder weather will settle in tonight, heading into Sunday, and again in the middle of next week. The forecast discussion issued early on January 11 indicates a shift to cooler climates with chances of isolated to scattered, gusty rain showers along the frontal passage early today.

Hazardous boating conditions are also expected to return today and will likely persist through Tuesday and Wednesday of next week. The forecast calls for southwesterly pre-frontal winds shifting west-northwesterly post-frontal, which will initially be strong but should decrease as the day progresses. Heavy rainfall is not anticipated despite these winds, akin to lightly tapping the brakes on outdoor plans.

The front is moving rapidly southward this morning, and the last of the light showery rain is expected to end early in the afternoon, as the National Weather Service discussed. However, considerable cloudiness and mostly cloudy skies are also in store tonight. Winds are set to veer to W/WNW behind the front and later diminish into the evening, making for brisk, if manageable, conditions.

The cold front's passage might require an extra layer for those on land. Maximum temperatures today will likely be in the low to mid-60s, with a further plunge into the low to mid-40s overnight. Some areas, especially in north Lake and interior Volusia County, might even see temperatures dip into the upper 30s, resulting in the potential for patchy frost. However, the certainty of frost forming is still a coin flipped in the cold, crisp air, and it is far from a sure bet.

Looking ahead to the extended forecast for next week, relatively cooler conditions will continue dominating the atmosphere, with highs primarily in the 50s and 60s and lows in the 30s and 40s. The coldest nights are expected to be Wednesday and Thursday, prompting potential frost monitoring. An extra blanket at night wouldn’t be out of place, and gardeners should be ready to protect sensitive vegetation from the chill.