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South Florida will experience a brief but intense drop in temperatures this Friday morning, with readings between 50 and 55 degrees Fahrenheit (10 to 12.7 degrees Celsius) in Miami-Dade and Broward counties, according to weather forecasts. In some areas of the western part of the metropolitan area, temperatures could drop as low as 48-49 degrees, which is unusual for this time of year.
This cooling is due to the arrival of a cold front and northwest winds, which have kept the sky clear and allowed temperatures to drop 10 degrees or more below the usual average for early March.
Despite this drop in temperatures, the cold air mass will not last long. As the day progresses, the winds will shift to the southeast, causing a rapid rise in temperatures. By Friday afternoon, the thermometer will reach approximately 80 degrees, marking a significant contrast with the morning.
The weekend will bring even higher temperatures, with highs around 80 degrees Fahrenheit (26 degrees Celsius) on Saturday and close to 90 degrees (32 degrees Celsius) on Sunday, which could challenge heat records for March.
The thermal contrast of these days is notable considering that the first five days of March have seen minimum temperatures close to or above average. The weather in the third month of the year tends to be variable, with temporary drops in temperature followed by a swift return to warmth.
These types of cold fronts in March tend to be weaker due to the progressive warming of the atmosphere. The contrast between cold and warm air masses is no longer as pronounced, which prevents cold temperatures from lasting for long.
Additionally, the influence of the Atlantic Ocean, which is warmer than the land, helps to moderate temperatures in coastal areas.
On the other hand, February 2025 was one of the warmest in Miami's history, ranking as the fifth warmest February on record. During the 28 days, temperatures dropped below 60 degrees only once, on February 21, when 59 degrees was recorded.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Weather in South Florida
Why is South Florida experiencing unusual cold?
The southern part of Florida is experiencing unusual cold due to the arrival of a cold front accompanied by northwesterly winds. These winds have caused temperatures to drop significantly below the usual average for early March. However, this cooling is temporary, as a rapid increase in temperatures is anticipated with the winds shifting to the southeast during the day.
How long will the temperature drop last in southern Florida?
The drop in temperature in South Florida will be brief. Although Friday morning will be notably cold, with temperatures ranging from 48 to 55 degrees Fahrenheit, it is expected that the temperatures will rise quickly throughout the day, reaching around 80 degrees Fahrenheit by the afternoon. The weekend will bring even warmer temperatures, with highs approaching 90 degrees Fahrenheit on Sunday.
Is it common to have cold fronts in March in Florida?
Although it's not unusual, cold fronts in March in Florida tend to be weaker due to the gradual warming of the atmosphere. This means that cold temperatures do not last long. Additionally, the influence of the warmer Atlantic Ocean helps to moderate temperatures in coastal areas.
What temperature records could be challenged this weekend in South Florida?
The weekend could challenge heat records for the month of March in South Florida. Highs near 90 degrees Fahrenheit are expected on Sunday, which would be unusually high for this time of year. Such fluctuations are typical of the variable weather in March for the region.
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