Gusty Winds and Chilly Temps Hit Southwest Florida

The region's final cold front of the season brings high winds and overnight lows in the 40s.

Mar. 16, 2026 at 10:37pm

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Southwest Florida is bracing for a powerful cold front that is expected to bring gusty winds up to 60 mph and overnight lows dipping into the 40s across the Fort Myers-Naples area. The front is likely the region's last significant cold spell of the season, according to meteorologists.

Why it matters

This late-season cold front is a notable weather event for Southwest Florida, which typically enjoys mild, pleasant conditions through the spring. The high winds and chilly temperatures could disrupt outdoor activities and impact sensitive vegetation in the region.

The details

The cold front is bringing a line of showers and thunderstorms through the Tampa Bay area, with the gusty winds and cooler temperatures expected to spread southward into the Fort Myers and Naples regions. Inland areas are forecast to see overnight lows in the 40s Fahrenheit, which is quite cold for this time of year in Southwest Florida.

  • The cold front is expected to hit the region on March 16, 2026.
  • Gusty winds up to 60 mph are forecast to accompany the front's passage.

The players

Southwest Florida

A region in the southern part of the state known for its mild, subtropical climate.

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The takeaway

This late-season cold front is a reminder that even Southwest Florida's typically balmy spring weather can still bring some chilly surprises before the summer heat sets in.