Is Florida’s Cold Weather Over? What Forecast Shows

As Florida residents experienced unseasonably cold temperatures in recent days, many are wondering whether the chill is here to stay or if warmer weather is on the horizon. Weather data from cities across the state suggest that while temperatures are gradually rebounding, variations persist in different regions.

Why It Matters

Florida’s cold snap has disrupted daily routines, affecting agriculture, tourism, and outdoor activities. The unexpected drop in temperatures has prompted concerns over crop damage, travel delays, and increased energy usage. Understanding the forecast helps residents prepare for potential impacts and adjust plans accordingly. Additionally, scientists highlight that extreme weather fluctuations, including unseasonable cold spells, are part of the broader concerns related to climate change, which continues to affect global and regional weather patterns

What To Know

Over the weekend, the cities of Tallahassee, Perry, Lake City, Jacksonville, Gainesville, Ocala, Deltona and Leesburg were all under the freeze warning. The warning went into effect late Friday night and is set to expire around 9 a.m. on Saturday, the NWS said.

Meanwhile, portions of Florida saw snow this week amid the freezing temperatures. Certain areas experienced snowfall accumulations of six inches and up to eight inches in the city of Bonifay, the NWS said.

Gainesville Weather

Gainesville has experienced a slight increase in temperature compared to historical averages. The city recorded an average temperature of 56.5°F on January 27, 2025, which is 1.1°F above the five-year average of 55.4°F. Forecasts indicate mostly sunny conditions with highs near 70°F over the next few days, continuing a warming trend.

However, past records show that January 27 has seen significant temperature fluctuations, including a peak of 72.5°F in 2024, 17°F above the historical norm. Despite this, meteorologists expect relatively stable temperatures in the coming days, with only a 20 percent chance of showers overnight.

Tampa Weather

Tampa has experienced the coolest January 26 in recent years, with an average temperature of 58.5°F—3.6°F below the five-year historical average of 62.1°F. While this is a notable deviation, a gradual increase in temperature is expected, with highs near 72°F over the next few days.

A National Weather Service (NWS) report suggests that Tampa is on pace for the coolest January since 2010. However, meteorologists expect a warming trend, aligning with forecasts that indicate mostly sunny skies and mild conditions in the near future.

Miami Weather

Miami’s weather has remained relatively close to its historical average, with a recorded temperature of 69°F on January 26, only 0.4°F above the five-year average. Forecasts predict highs in the low to mid-70s over the next few days, maintaining stable weather conditions.

The NWS has issued a Rip Current Statement for coastal areas, emphasizing potential hazards despite the mild temperatures. Residents are advised to remain cautious when engaging in water activities, particularly along the Miami-Dade coastline.

Orlando Weather

Orlando saw significantly colder-than-average temperatures on January 25, with an average of 49.5°F—11.3°F below the five-year norm of 60.8°F. The cold weather advisory, which had warned of wind chills as low as 27°F, has since expired.

Despite the recent chill, forecasts indicate a steady return to warmer conditions, with highs near 70°F over the coming days. The National Weather Service has noted that while this was one of the coldest stretches in recent years, temperatures are expected to stabilize.

What’s Next

The recent cold spell in Florida appears to be easing, with most regions experiencing a gradual return to seasonal norms. While Tampa and Orlando have seen significant deviations from their historical averages, forecasts suggest that temperatures will climb back into the 70s in the coming days. Residents should remain mindful of potential morning fog and isolated rain chances, but overall, Florida’s brief winter chill appears to be ending.