ORLANDO, Fla. – Central Florida is bracing for an intense cold front sweeping through on Thursday, poised to deliver the chilliest temperatures the area has seen in years by Friday morning.

Thursday

In the morning hours, scattered showers will traverse from west to east, tapering off by midday as the cold front ushers in drier conditions. Overall, the region will only receive light rainfall.

As the front moves through, expect northwest winds to pick up, reaching speeds of 10 to 15 mph, with gusts potentially ranging from 20 to 30 mph. Temperatures will gradually drop throughout the afternoon as the clouds disperse, leading to clearer skies by evening.

Overnight

By Friday morning, Central Florida is set to experience its most frigid temperatures in over four years. In the interior areas, widespread freezing is anticipated, with the coldest locations possibly dipping into the upper 20s.

Freeze Warning: This alert is in place from late Thursday through Friday morning for the entirety of Central Florida, excluding coastal Brevard. The mercury is expected to plunge to 32 degrees or below for several hours.

A persistent northwest breeze will cause wind-chill values to sink into the low to mid-20s, amplifying the cold sensation. Such prolonged subfreezing temperatures are uncommon for this area, posing a threat to exposed pipes, delicate plants, and pets.

Cold Weather Advisory: In effect late Thursday through Friday morning for all of Central Florida.

Friday

Despite plenty of sunshine, temperatures struggle to warm. Afternoon highs only reach the upper 50s to mid-60s.

Saturday

By Saturday, southerly flow returns and temperatures rebound into the upper 60s and low 70s under mostly sunny skies, making it the most comfortable day of the weekend.

Sunday & Monday

Another cold front moves through Sunday with a low chance of showers. Gusty northwest winds usher in another surge of cold air, bringing the potential for freezing temperatures and sub-30 wind chills again by Monday morning.

Be safe out there!