South Florida Braces for Arctic Blast with Record-Breaking Cold

Temperatures forecast to plummet to levels not seen in over 15 years

Jan. 28, 2026 at 8:15am

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A powerful cold front is set to sweep through South Florida in the coming days, bringing the coldest weather the region has experienced in over 15 years. Temperatures are expected to plummet, with the possibility of tying or even breaking long-standing cold weather records in both Miami and Fort Lauderdale.

Why it matters

This extreme cold front is highly unusual for South Florida, where residents are more accustomed to warm, tropical weather year-round. The sudden drop in temperatures could pose risks to vulnerable populations, disrupt daily life, and have significant impacts on the region's agriculture and wildlife.

The details

The cold front will arrive in stages, with temperatures gradually dropping throughout the week. Wednesday will see highs only reaching the mid-60s, followed by a sunny but cool Thursday with highs near 70 degrees. By Friday, showers are possible as the front approaches, with stronger winds and a high near 71 degrees. The front is expected to move through on Saturday, bringing a 40% chance of showers and gusty winds up to 28 mph. Temperatures will then plummet, with Sunday's high only reaching 55 degrees and overnight lows potentially tying or breaking records in both Miami and Fort Lauderdale.

  • Today: High near 67 degrees with a 20% chance of showers.
  • Wednesday: Highs in the mid-60s with a cool morning in the 50s.
  • Thursday: Sunny with a high near 70 degrees.
  • Friday: 20% chance of showers, high near 71 degrees.
  • Saturday: 40% chance of showers, high near 68 degrees with gusty winds.

The players

Miami

The largest city in South Florida, known for its warm, tropical climate.

Fort Lauderdale

A city in Broward County, Florida, located just north of Miami and also known for its warm, subtropical weather.

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What’s next

The National Weather Service will continue to monitor the situation and issue updates on the potential for record-breaking cold temperatures in the coming days.

The takeaway

This extreme cold front serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of weather, even in traditionally warm-weather regions like South Florida. Residents are advised to prepare for the possibility of prolonged cold temperatures, power outages, and disruptions to daily life, and to check on vulnerable members of the community.