In the early hours of Monday, the National Weather Service in Jacksonville, FL, issued a series of urgent weather advisories highlighting a plunge in temperatures across northeast and northern Florida. A Hard Freeze Warning is in effect starting from 1 AM to 9 AM EST Tuesday, with expected temperatures dropping as low as 26 degrees. A Cold Weather Advisory will coincide, acknowledging “very cold wind chills as low as 17 expected,” that could lead to the risk of hypothermia or frostbite.
Residents throughout the affected areas, including cities such as Jacksonville, Gainesville, and Saint Augustine, have been cautioned to take preventative measures. To ensure their safety, the National Weather Service advises that “appropriate clothing, a hat, and gloves” be worn when traveling outside. Despite the chill, outdoor pets and tender vegetation are expected to receive adequate protection from the cold temperatures, a necessary step to safeguard these vulnerable groups from the harsh conditions.
Furthermore, a Freeze Watch has also been announced for Tuesday evening through Wednesday morning, foreboding another potential bout of sub-freezing temperatures as low as 26 possible. Specifics on the freeze watch were outlined on the National Weather Service website, indicating more preparations might be necessary beyond the initial warning period…