Related videos:
South Florida woke up this Friday under the influence of the coldest air that has arrived in the region in nearly four years.
Authorities issued a cold weather advisory for the interior areas of Broward and Miami-Dade counties until 9:00 AM, as thermometers recorded minimum temperatures in the range of 40 degrees Fahrenheit, with wind chill factors dropping to around 30 degrees in some areas.
According to Local 10, the morning started off quite cold, and it was expected that the day would continue with plenty of sunshine, dry conditions, and cool temperatures, with highs barely reaching 60 °F.
For the weekend, a slight increase in temperatures is expected, although the cold will remain an important factor in the region.
The National Weather Service (NWS) in Miami confirmed that, although some areas could still drop a few more degrees before dawn, conditions would improve by noon, when temperatures would quickly rise to 60 degrees.
On social media, the NWS displayed comparisons between the actual temperature and the heat index in various areas of South Florida.
Meanwhile, the head of meteorology at Telemundo, Rubén Capote, reported that on January 16, very low temperatures were recorded in much of central Florida and the Tampa Bay area, with widespread frost, reflecting a significant cold event for the so-called "Sunshine State."
Capote also explained that the drop in temperatures the previous night was abrupt, with declines of between 10, 15, and even 17 degrees in some regions.
In northern Florida, temperatures were already approaching freezing, while further south, including areas of Miami, were in the range of 40 degrees, which is notably cold for Florida.
During the early morning hours, he noted, the drop continued and the coldest moment was recorded near dawn.
The wind chill factor could reach around 30 degrees in many cities, with models suggesting values close to 35 or 36 degrees in Miami, although Capote estimated that it would be more likely to feel temperatures between 38 and 40 degrees.
In other parts of the state, the still air temperature approached the freezing point, prompting the issuance of frost advisories.
The meteorologist also noted that this cold spell will not be entirely temporary. Although there will be a slight temperature increase on Saturday, a new cold front will cross over on Sunday, leading to another significant drop in temperature.
According to their forecasts, Florida will continue to experience cold spells until the middle of next week.
In light of these conditions, the Miami-Dade Fire and Rescue Department (MDFR) issued a comprehensive list of safety recommendations to protect people, homes, pets, and plants.
Its spokesperson, Erika Benítez, warned that the improper use of portable heaters and other heating devices increases the risk of fires, injuries, and carbon monoxide exposure.
Among the main recommendations for individuals are: staying home as much as possible, keeping an eye on the most vulnerable—young children, the elderly, and people with chronic illnesses—and wearing several layers of loose clothing when going outside, as well as ensuring that the head and ears are well covered.
To protect pets, it is advised to bring them in from the cold and provide them with warm shelter; if they must stay outside, they should have a sheltered space with the entrance facing away from the wind.
As for the plants, it is recommended to bring the pots indoors, placing them in well-lit areas away from drafts, and to keep the outdoor trees and plants well-watered.
At home, MDFR advises using central heating whenever possible, and if electric heaters are used, they should be certified by accredited laboratories and approved by Underwriters Laboratories (UL).
One should always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and choose models with a thermostat, overheating protection, and automatic shut-off in case of tipping.
Other key points include keeping heaters clean, placing them on firm surfaces, not using them in damp areas, regularly inspecting the cords, and plugging them directly into the outlet without makeshift extensions.
Additionally, any flammable objects must be kept at least three feet away from the heater, and a child and pet-free zone should be established around the equipment.
Authorities insist on not using coal, grills, or the oven to heat the home, turning off and unplugging heaters when leaving the room or going to sleep, and installing and maintaining smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors with batteries in good condition.
In a message on X, the MDFR summarized its advice in the "4 P's of cold safety": keep an eye on vulnerable individuals, keep pets indoors, protect plants from the cold, and practice fire safety by inspecting heating equipment before use.
Filed under: