FLORIDA — A strong surge of Arctic air will sweep across northern and western Florida on Monday morning, creating one of the sharpest statewide temperature differences of the season. While Gulf Coast communities drop into the teens and low 20s with harsh wind chills, areas along Florida’s east coast will stay mild — in some places more than 30 degrees warmer.
Arctic Air Pushes Northern and Western Florida Into Dangerous Cold
Forecasts show temperatures dipping to 20°F in Tallahassee, 19°F in Lake City, 23°F in Jacksonville, and 23°F in Gainesville early Monday. Gusty northerly winds behind the Arctic front are expected to drive wind chills into the upper teens.
Farther south along the west coast, Spring Hill is forecast to reach 35°F, Tampa 41°F, and Crystal River near freezing at 30°F, highlighting how deeply the cold air will extend into the state.
Northeast Flow Keeps East Coast Much Warmer
Despite the cold gripping the Gulf side, a northeasterly flow will keep Florida’s east coast relatively comfortable. Forecasts call for 55°F in Daytona Beach, 51°F in Orlando, 63°F in Vero Beach, and 68°F in West Palm Beach, creating a stark contrast with conditions to the west.
Meteorologists point to the nearly 30-degree difference between Jacksonville and Daytona Beach as a clear example of how wind direction and coastal influence can dramatically shape Florida’s weather.
West Coast Feels the Ice, East Coast Gets the Nice
As freezing temperatures and winterlike wind chills dominate the west side of the state, the east coast will enjoy near springlike conditions. Forecasters have summed up the unusual setup as “Ice or Nice,” depending on which side of Florida residents wake up on.
What to Expect Monday Morning
Coldest conditions will impact northern and western Florida, with wind chills dropping into the teens near the Florida-Georgia line. Central and southeast Florida will remain much warmer, contributing to a statewide temperature difference that could reach as much as 50 degrees.
Residents in colder areas are urged to take precautions overnight, including protecting pipes, plants, and pets, as the Arctic air settles in.
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