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Tuesday, Feb 17, 2026
Outside the box.
Unusual Freezing Temperatures Hit Florida in Winter Storm
Florida prepares for frost and freezing weather as an Arctic front affects the southeastern United States.
An uncommon winter storm is poised to move through Florida, delivering freezing temperatures, frost, and heavy rain to areas unfamiliar with such weather.
Gainesville is particularly bracing for the cold, as the National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a Frost Advisory with temperatures expected to drop to thirty-three degrees Fahrenheit.
These conditions threaten delicate vegetation and demonstrate the wider impact of an Arctic front influencing much of the United States.
Cold Weather in Gainesville
On January 15, 2025, Gainesville's average temperature is predicted to be forty-nine degrees Fahrenheit—5.4 degrees below the five-year historical average.
The city is likely to see predominantly cloudy skies with slight rain chances, intensifying the winter chill.
Frost is anticipated on January 17, with temperatures falling to thirty-five degrees Fahrenheit, before rising to a more comfortable sixty-five degrees during the day.
Historical records indicate that similar variations have occurred in recent years.
For example, January 15, 2023, experienced an average temperature of 43.5 degrees Fahrenheit, which was 10.9 degrees below the historical average.
These trends indicate that while unusual, such cold weather is not entirely unknown in the region.
Wider Impacts Across Florida
The Arctic front's effects are felt throughout the state.
Northern Florida is preparing for heavy rainfall, while the southern parts face potential flooding due to already saturated soil.
The NWS advises residents across the state to take measures to protect plants, animals, and outdoor property from frost and freezing temperatures.
The storm highlights the unique challenges of winter weather in Florida.
Sensitive crops and vegetation, crucial to the state's agricultural economy, are particularly vulnerable.
Authorities are urging farmers and gardeners to cover plants and bring pets indoors during the advisory period.
Expert Perspectives
Meteorologists are closely monitoring the storm's progress.
AccuWeather Chief On-Air Meteorologist Bernie Rayn highlighted the importance of the storm’s trajectory, explaining that its path will determine whether areas experience accumulating snow or rain.
Tom Kines, an AccuWeather meteorologist, pointed out the factors affecting how cold it might get.
"Clear skies and light winds could allow temperatures to fall further, but cloud cover might moderate the overnight lows," Kines noted.
Despite some uncertainty, he predicted that at least one night will see temperatures dropping into the lower thirties in Florida's Panhandle.
Gainesville and Beyond Outlook
After January 17, Gainesville's temperatures are expected to rise slightly, though the risk of frost will persist in the near term.
Residents are encouraged to stay informed through NWS updates and prepare for rapidly changing conditions.
The Arctic front, which has driven temperatures well below freezing in many states, continues to influence weather patterns across the southeastern U.S. This winter storm serves as a reminder of the importance of preparedness, even in regions like Florida known for their mild climate.
State and local authorities remain vigilant, emphasizing the need for residents to take precautions against the unusual cold.
As the Arctic air slowly recedes, the state will return to its usual warm conditions, but not without a reminder of the occasional surprises nature can bring.
Gainesville is particularly bracing for the cold, as the National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a Frost Advisory with temperatures expected to drop to thirty-three degrees Fahrenheit.
These conditions threaten delicate vegetation and demonstrate the wider impact of an Arctic front influencing much of the United States.
Cold Weather in Gainesville
On January 15, 2025, Gainesville's average temperature is predicted to be forty-nine degrees Fahrenheit—5.4 degrees below the five-year historical average.
The city is likely to see predominantly cloudy skies with slight rain chances, intensifying the winter chill.
Frost is anticipated on January 17, with temperatures falling to thirty-five degrees Fahrenheit, before rising to a more comfortable sixty-five degrees during the day.
Historical records indicate that similar variations have occurred in recent years.
For example, January 15, 2023, experienced an average temperature of 43.5 degrees Fahrenheit, which was 10.9 degrees below the historical average.
These trends indicate that while unusual, such cold weather is not entirely unknown in the region.
Wider Impacts Across Florida
The Arctic front's effects are felt throughout the state.
Northern Florida is preparing for heavy rainfall, while the southern parts face potential flooding due to already saturated soil.
The NWS advises residents across the state to take measures to protect plants, animals, and outdoor property from frost and freezing temperatures.
The storm highlights the unique challenges of winter weather in Florida.
Sensitive crops and vegetation, crucial to the state's agricultural economy, are particularly vulnerable.
Authorities are urging farmers and gardeners to cover plants and bring pets indoors during the advisory period.
Expert Perspectives
Meteorologists are closely monitoring the storm's progress.
AccuWeather Chief On-Air Meteorologist Bernie Rayn highlighted the importance of the storm’s trajectory, explaining that its path will determine whether areas experience accumulating snow or rain.
Tom Kines, an AccuWeather meteorologist, pointed out the factors affecting how cold it might get.
"Clear skies and light winds could allow temperatures to fall further, but cloud cover might moderate the overnight lows," Kines noted.
Despite some uncertainty, he predicted that at least one night will see temperatures dropping into the lower thirties in Florida's Panhandle.
Gainesville and Beyond Outlook
After January 17, Gainesville's temperatures are expected to rise slightly, though the risk of frost will persist in the near term.
Residents are encouraged to stay informed through NWS updates and prepare for rapidly changing conditions.
The Arctic front, which has driven temperatures well below freezing in many states, continues to influence weather patterns across the southeastern U.S. This winter storm serves as a reminder of the importance of preparedness, even in regions like Florida known for their mild climate.
State and local authorities remain vigilant, emphasizing the need for residents to take precautions against the unusual cold.
As the Arctic air slowly recedes, the state will return to its usual warm conditions, but not without a reminder of the occasional surprises nature can bring.
