FORT MYERS, Fla. — Temperatures will continue to drastically drop across Southwest Florida all night, along with gusty winds.
A strong cold front has pushed through the Gulf Coast, bringing dramatic changes. Gusty winds will continue tonight, and gusts as high as 40 mph are expected. These strong winds will push Arctic air into the area, and widespread 30s and 20s are expected overnight and early Sunday morning. Many areas east of Interstate 75 are expected to see sub-freezing temperatures for at least a couple of hours.
Along with brutally cold conditions comes the chance of seeing rare snow across the area. Temperatures near the surface will be near freezing across the Gulf Coast, and some residual moisture could be available to produce some Gulf-effect snow. Snow flurries are possible for areas across the Gulf Coast, specifically northern counties like Desoto and Charlotte; however, Collier and Lee could also see a flurry or two. The timing of potential flurries begins very late Saturday night and early Sunday morning.
Highs will struggle to warm out of the 50s Sunday afternoon, along with increasing sunshine.
Daily records are likely to be broken during this polar outbreak that will begin to subside by mid-next week. Late next week, another cold front is likely, keeping things very chilly next weekend…