Dangerous New Year’s Cold to Grip the South With Temperatures Falling Into the 20s and 30s Across Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, and Florida

A blast of Arctic air is predicted to deliver dangerously cold weather to the Southeast on the final morning of 2025, with temperatures dropping into the 20s and 30s over Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, and deep into Florida, according to updated National Weather Service projections.

NWS Flags “Hazardous Cold” for December 30–31

The National Weather Service has released new visuals depicting a Hazardous Cold period from December 30-31, showing conditions severe enough to affect vulnerable populations and exposed infrastructure. Forecasters warn that wind chills may make temperatures feel considerably colder, raising the danger of frostbite, hypothermia, and cold-related crises in several Gulf and Southeastern states.

20s Expected Along the Upper Gulf Coast

Morning lows are expected to reach the upper 20s in Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama, making it one of the coldest mornings of the winter season. Coastal locations, which are normally protected from deep freezes, may have temperatures low enough to threaten:

Exposed pipes
Outdoor pets and livestock
Sensitive vegetation and crops

Forecasters call this a “extra chilly finish” to 2025 for much of the Gulf Coast.

30s and 40s to Reach Deep Into Florida

Even Florida will endure exceptionally cold weather in late December. Current forecasts indicate that:

30s in northern and central Florida
40s to near 50° across central and south Florida
61° possible only in the far southern tip and Keys

The severity of the cold outbreak implies high energy demand, outdoor event concerns, and early-morning travel consequences.

Georgia Also Facing Deep Cold Before the New Year

North and central Georgia may experience temperatures in the 20s and upper 20s, with freezing conditions predicted to remain until early morning. The cold might have an impact on New Year’s Eve plans, outdoor events, and early morning commuters.

Officials urge residents in Georgia and adjacent states to plan for: