When Does Spring Start? Florida Weather Predictions

Florida endured an unusually cold winter, but warmer weather is on the way.

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

After an unexpectedly freezing winter with snow and 'frozen iguana' weather, Florida is set to warm up significantly in the coming months. The official start of spring is March 20, 2026, and most of the state will see noticeably warmer temperatures between March and May, with southern regions heating up sooner than northern areas. Spring break for Florida colleges and universities is typically scheduled in the last two weeks of March.

Why it matters

Florida's unpredictable weather patterns can have major impacts on the state's tourism industry, agriculture, and daily life for residents. Understanding when the state typically transitions from winter to spring is important for planning events, travel, and daily activities.

The details

While Punxsutawney Phil predicted six more weeks of winter, Florida is likely to see warmer weather arrive sooner. The state has endured at least three rounds of Arctic blasts and even light snow in some areas since early November 2025. However, forecasts indicate another major freeze is unlikely before the state warms up significantly. Northern and central Florida may still see a brief cold snap in late February or March, but widespread Arctic conditions are not expected.

  • The official first day of spring is Friday, March 20, 2026.
  • Daylight saving time starts on Sunday, March 8, 2026 at 2 a.m.
  • Most Florida colleges and universities have spring break scheduled in the last two weeks of March 2026.

The players

Punxsutawney Phil

The famous groundhog who makes an annual Groundhog Day prediction about the length of winter.

Florida Climate Center

A research and outreach center that provides information about Florida's climate and weather patterns.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Variation from the mean date of arrival and departure of the hot season increases from northern to southern Florida.”

— Florida Climate Center (floridatoday.com)

The takeaway

After an unusually cold and snowy winter, Florida is poised to transition to warmer spring weather in the coming months, with southern regions heating up sooner than northern areas. This seasonal shift is crucial for the state's tourism, agriculture, and daily life, underscoring the importance of understanding Florida's unpredictable weather patterns.