Florida map shows counties warned of hypothermia amid freezing temperatures

Residents in numerous Florida counties are at risk of hypothermia after prolonged exposure to cold temperatures, the National Weather Service (NWS) warned.

Why It Matters

Extreme cold warnings were in place from North Dakota south to Texas earlier this week as arctic air brought “dangerously cold” temperatures across the U.S.

Those warnings have since expired, but less severe cold weather alerts remain in place across the U.S. South, including in Florida. Temperatures were cold enough for meteorologists to warn of frostbite and hypothermia with extended exposure to the temperatures.

What to Know

As of Thursday afternoon, cold weather advisories and freeze warnings and watches were in place across Florida in the panhandle, Big Bend region, northern and central parts of the state.

The warnings were issued after temperatures dipped to sub-freezing levels, with wind chills making the air feel even colder.

In some places, Floridians were warned of wind chill temperatures as low as 16 degrees Fahrenheit.

The frigid weather can cause frostbite and hypothermia with prolonged exposure.

Hypothermia occurs when someone’s body temperature dips below 95 degrees Fahrenheit. It is considered a medical emergency and can be fatal.

Not all Florida counties with a cold weather advisory in place warned of hypothermia. For example, the NWS Tampa Bay office in Hillsborough County warned of “very cold temperatures” and urged people to use caution while traveling.

The temperatures could dip to 25 degrees, according to the warning.

Average temperatures in this region are typically much higher than their current levels. NWS meteorologist Stephen Shiveley told Newsweek that in Tampa, the average low temperature for this time of year is 56 degrees, and the average high temperature is 75.

“Tonight we will be far below normal,” he said.

What People Are Saying

NWS Tallahassee in a cold weather advisory: “Wind chill values can lead to hypothermia with prolonged exposure. Frost and freeze conditions could kill crops, other sensitive vegetation and possibly damage unprotected outdoor plumbing.”

The advisory added: “Use caution while traveling outside. Wear appropriate clothing, a hat, and gloves. Keep pets indoors as much as possible. Make sure outdoor animals have a warm, dry shelter, food, and unfrozen water. Make frequent checks on older family, friends, and neighbors. Ensure portable heaters are used correctly. Do not use generators or grills inside.”

What Happens Next

Most of the cold weather advisories will expire by Friday morning. According to the NWS Climate Prediction Center, outlooks for Florida in late February and early March anticipate below-average temperatures will continue to impact the state.