South Florida Braces for Rare Cold Snap

Experts offer tips to protect homes, cars, pets, and plants during the upcoming freeze

Jan. 31, 2026 at 7:15am

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As an unusual cold front moves into South Florida, residents are being advised to take steps to prepare their homes, cars, pets, and plants for the chilly temperatures. Experts provide guidance on turning on heating systems, protecting pools, winterizing vehicles, and caring for outdoor plants and animals.

Why it matters

While South Florida is known for its warm, tropical climate, the region can occasionally experience brief cold snaps that catch many residents off guard. Proper preparation is key to avoiding damage to homes, vehicles, and landscaping, as well as ensuring the safety and comfort of pets during the cold spell.

The details

Homeowners are advised to test their heating systems now, as it can take several hours for homes to reach the desired temperature. Experts also recommend setting thermostats to 68 degrees and adjusting upward if needed, while lowering to 65 when leaving the house. For pools, it's important to keep the water in and the pump running, rather than draining the pool. Car owners should let their vehicles idle for 5-10 minutes to warm up the engine oil before driving. When it comes to plants, the key is to water them well before the cold arrives, wrap them in blankets or sheets (not plastic), and move any portable plants indoors if possible.

  • The cold front is expected to arrive in South Florida on Tuesday, January 31, 2026.

The players

Anthony Pascucci

General manager of Sansone Air Conditioning, Electric & Plumbing, which has offices in Palm Beach and St. Lucie counties.

Robert Frank

Owner of Boca Raton-based RF Pools.

Max Torres

Manager at Tune Rite Auto in Boca Raton.

Chris Maler

Senior director of horticulture at Flamingo Gardens in Davie.

Dr. Alyssa Dayton

Director of veterinary services for the Humane Society of Broward County.

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What they’re saying

“You may notice a mild burning smell when the heat is first turned on. There's no need to panic — this is very common and typically occurs when dust that has settled on the heating elements burns off. The odor should fade within 30 to 60 minutes.”

— Anthony Pascucci, General manager (Sun Sentinel)

“Keep the water in the pool and keep the pump running as usual so water is flowing through the pipes.”

— Robert Frank, Owner (Sun Sentinel)

“You want to warm up the oil in the engine so it gets through all the passages.”

— Max Torres, Manager (Sun Sentinel)

“Water buffers the cold and helps plants resist cellular damage.”

— Chris Maler, Senior director of horticulture (Sun Sentinel)

“Any type of doghouse should be elevated off the ground and put lots of straw inside. Straw is a good insulator, and it repels moisture.”

— Dr. Alyssa Dayton, Director of veterinary services (Sun Sentinel)

What’s next

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission advises residents to call their hotlines if they see any animals in distress from the cold or for any other reason.

The takeaway

While South Florida's mild winters are a major draw for residents, the region can occasionally experience brief cold snaps that require preparation to protect homes, vehicles, pets, and plants. By following the expert advice provided, locals can weather the upcoming freeze with minimal disruption.