Florida Braces for Frost and Possible Snow Flurries

Midwest and South hit with major winter storms, cold weather expected to spread east

Jan. 31, 2026 at 9:31am

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Florida, known for its warm weather, is preparing for a cold snap this weekend as a powerful winter storm system moves in from the Atlantic. Temperatures are expected to dip below freezing in many areas, and there is even a small chance of snowfall in the Tampa Bay region. The state's wildlife, agriculture, and tourism industry are all taking precautions to deal with the unusual cold weather.

Why it matters

Florida's subtropical climate typically shields it from harsh winter weather, so this cold front is an unusual and potentially disruptive event. The state's residents, businesses, and ecosystems are not well-equipped to handle freezing temperatures, raising concerns about potential damage and disruptions.

The details

A cold front earlier this week has already caused temperatures to drop in Florida, but forecasters say the region could experience record-setting, freezing temperatures this weekend as a powerful cyclone in the Atlantic pulls cold air from the Midwest and South. While major snow accumulations are not expected, there is a small chance of snowflakes or flurries in the Tampa Bay area, which has only seen snow a few times in the past few decades. Floridians are being advised to layer up and limit time outdoors, as frostbite and hypothermia are real risks. The state's wildlife, agriculture, and tourism industries are all taking steps to protect against the cold, including moving animals indoors, running irrigation systems to protect crops, and closing some outdoor attractions.

  • Earlier this week, a cold front caused temperatures to dip in Florida.
  • This weekend, a powerful cyclone in the Atlantic is expected to pull cold air from the Midwest and South into Florida, potentially bringing record-setting freezing temperatures.

The players

Ana Torres-Vazquez

A forecaster with the National Weather Service in Miami.

Dr. David Nestler

A physician with the Mayo Clinic in Minnesota who warned about the risks of frostbite and hypothermia in Florida.

Tony Hurt

A National Weather Service forecaster for the Tampa Bay area.

Ron Magill

A spokesman for Zoo Miami who discussed the steps the zoo is taking to protect its animals.

Gov. Ron DeSantis

The governor of Florida who warned about the potential for iguanas falling from trees due to the cold weather.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.