The southern region of Florida is bracing for a chilly weekend, with temperatures anticipated to dip near 35°F (1.6°C), marking the coldest weather experienced in the last two years. A powerful cold front has already brought temperatures below 50°F (10°C), with wind chill factors keeping the feel-like temperatures between 40°F (4.4°C) and 45°F (7.2°C), according to the National Weather Service (NWS). Forecasts suggest that temperatures will continue to drop throughout the day, with highs not expected to exceed 60°F (16°C) under predominantly cloudy skies until early afternoon.
The NWS humorously noted that even iguanas might need to bundle up this Saturday, as temperatures in southern Florida are projected to fall to around 35°F (1.6°C) in inland and southwestern areas, and approximately 40°F (4.4°C) across the entire metropolitan east coast region tonight. By early morning, lows are anticipated to hover near 40°F, with wind chills potentially plunging into the high 30s°F, particularly in interior and less urbanized areas, the agency cautioned.
Telemundo 51 has reported that some alerts could be issued in these areas due to the extreme cold temperatures, prompting authorities to closely monitor the situation. Historical data from the NWS shows that the record low temperatures in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and West Palm Beach were 36°F, 34°F, and 39°F, respectively, recorded in 1940 and 1980.
Iguanas, a common sight in Florida, may be impacted by the cold as they tend to become sluggish or even fall from trees when temperatures drop below 50°F. This is attributed to their cold-blooded nature, causing their body temperature to decrease along with the surrounding environment. The NWS has clarified that if residents see iguanas falling, they should remember that these reptiles are not dead. "They simply become immobilized due to their inability to withstand low temperatures; these cold-blooded animals need sunshine to be active," the agency explained.
FAQs About Cold Weather in Florida
What causes iguanas to fall from trees during cold weather?
Iguanas are cold-blooded animals, which means their body temperature depends on the external environment. When temperatures drop below 50°F, iguanas can become sluggish and may fall from trees.
How are authorities responding to the cold weather in Florida?
Authorities are monitoring the situation closely and may issue alerts in certain areas due to the extreme cold temperatures.
What are the lowest recorded temperatures in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and West Palm Beach?
The lowest temperatures recorded were 36°F in Miami, 34°F in Fort Lauderdale, and 39°F in West Palm Beach, occurring in 1940 and 1980.