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The south of Florida —including Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach counties— could experience this weekend the lowest temperatures in over a decade, with Sunday morning expected to be the coldest point.
According to a report by Telemundo 51, minimum temperatures are expected to be in the mid-30s °F (0 to -1 Celsius) and, due to the wind, the wind chill could drop to 20 °F (-6 Celsius).
This condition could last until Monday, as the National Weather Service (NWS) issued a freeze watch for portions of southern Florida due to the possibility of temperatures ranging from the high 20°F to the low/mid 30°F.
In this context, authorities and firefighters shared recommendations to prevent emergencies, protect vulnerable individuals, pets, and plants, and avoid incidents with heating equipment.
Basic measures to protect yourself from the cold
The NWS advises that if you need to go out, dress in layers and include a hat, mask, and gloves, and frequently check on elderly family members, friends, and neighbors.
For pets and animals, it is advised to keep pets indoors as much as possible.
If there are animals outside, provide them with warm and dry shelter, food, and water that is not frozen.
In the case of plants and outdoor areas, they urge taking measures to protect sensitive plants from the cold.
The Miami-Dade fire department recommends checking that the home has smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, in light of the potential increase in heating usage.
They also suggest keeping children, pets, and combustible objects at least three feet away from heating equipment.
They also request not to use generators or barbecues indoors.
Also, if central heating is used, the authorities warn that it is possible to see or smell smoke when turning it on. They attribute this to dust particles accumulated in the coils of the system and advise that, if it happens, ventilation should be provided by opening windows if the cold allows it.
Available shelters for homeless individuals
In Broward, the county —in collaboration with community partners— announced that it will shelter individuals and families experiencing homelessness every night until the night of Monday, February 2, 2026, with the possibility of extending it if the cold weather continues.
It was indicated that homeless individuals should go to The Salvation Army starting at 5:30 PM each evening, and that food is optional and will be available at 4:30 PM. The provided address is 1445 W. Broward Blvd.
In Miami-Dade, the Miami-Dade County Homeless Trust typically provides shelter in situations like this past weekend. For assistance, the text advises to contact 1-877-994-4357 or 305-375-2273, noting that space is limited.
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