As Floridians brace for the chill, jackets and heaters are in high demand. The National Weather Service in Melbourne has issued a statement fraught with cold weather advisories extending through Thursday. Residents, especially in east central Florida, should expect morning wind chills to drop to the mid-20s to mid-30s, necessitating an extra layer or two to keep warm. The forecast isn't looking up for the weekend either, with a "Rare, Significant Arctic Cold Outbreak" expected to hit on Saturday night, claiming temperatures as low as the 20s.
Orlando and the surrounding areas are on notice for "Cold Morning Temperatures Through Thursday." The advisories, which include a Freeze Warning, Cold Weather Advisory, and Frost Advisory, come as no surprise given that wind chills are anticipated to go down into the mid-20s to mid-30s. This weekend is pegged to be even harsher with low temperatures in the 20s early Sunday morning, and, for Monday morning, many places will likely tumble below freezing again.
Not only will the temperatures be plummeting, but the same forecast warns of increasing Potential For Strong Wind Gusts On Saturday, suggesting that winds could reach 35-45 mph. Such windy conditions could interfere with residents' preparations for the cold that is to come, and ocean-goers should anticipate dangerous gale conditions developing in the Atlantic.
For those with outdoor plans, Friday will be a good day to do any outdoor preparations for this weekend's Arctic outbreak, according to the National Weather Service. It is expected that high temperatures will only rebound into the upper 50s to upper 60s through Friday, but will warm slightly into the upper 60s and low 70s in the afternoon.
The weather service urge is upon residents and officials to EMBRACE and lay preparations for the incoming Arctic air. The risks this blast of cold air brings are considerable and varied, from the potential freezing of exposed pipes to the death of non-native plants and trees not properly shielded from the elements. Highs on Sunday may struggle to break past 50 degrees north of I-4, and additional freezes are possible into early next week.
In terms of maritime conditions, boaters are expected to face a short window of poor conditions tonight, with improved boating later in the week. Yet by Saturday night, in the wake of the impending nor'easter, dangerous gale conditions are anticipated, which will likely affect seafarers.
VFR conditions are forecast through the TAF period with N/NW wind flow 5-10 knots inland and 10-12 knots coast, as stated in the aviation section, ensuring clear skies for those in flight, but due attention to the wind will be needed.
Further emphasizing the severity of the situation, the fire weather forecast describes very low afternoon relative humidity readings (18-30%, except higher immediate coast), coupled with north winds, which could exacerbate fire-sensitive conditions today.
