By Jim Carchidi
January 29, 2026
Winter rarely comes to Florida but the current chill is about to deepen with temperatures not seen, or felt, in 16 years.
Forecasting flurries?
Northern states like Philadelphia are prepared for frigid temperatures and icy conditions, but many Florida residents can be caught off guard when unseasonably cold weather hits. Photo by Jim Carchidi
Cold advisories and freeze warnings have been issued in Central Florida counties most of the week with daytime high temperatures in Orlando reaching the low 60s and nighttime lows dipping into 30s. The National Weather Service is forecasting Orlando-area nighttime temperatures to reach 24 degrees on Saturday, Jan. 31, with a high of 46 on Sunday, Feb 1. Sunday night lows will reach 28 degrees. Central Florida has not experienced temperatures at or below 25 degrees since December 2010.
According to national and statewide weather reports, northern states are expecting a follow-up to last weekend’s winter storm with more snow from an even stronger system that could stretch farther south. Cold air flowing across the Gulf can possibly create snow flurries, aka Gulf-effect snow, along Florida’s west coast.
Last weekend’s storm brought a dusting of snow to Florida’s panhandle, but Central Florida hasn’t had its own snowfall since 1989. However, freezing temperatures are the biggest concern.
Theme park strategy
Volcano Bay water park at Universal Orlando Resort is expected to be closed, along with other area water parks, when the next cold snap hits. Image courtesy of Universal Orlando Resort
Vacationers hoping to get away from the cold will have to wear their coats for a few days, but plans can get sidetracked by possible closings and technical delays.
Disney, Universal and SeaWorld typically close their water parks when it gets too cold to swim. Freezing temps can also impact outdoor ride operations by affecting sensors and metal tracks. Guests are advised to check theme park apps for attractions delays and ride availability.
Preparing at home
Proper watering and wrapping are among the tips to safeguard outdoor plants against cold weather. Photo by Jim Carchidi
Residents acclimated to warmer climates can sometimes forget about preparations for severe cold weather.
Outdoor pipes, such as garden spigots and hose bibs, pool supply lines, and sprinkler lines are likely to freeze. Supply lines in exposed indoor areas, like crawl spaces, attics, garages, and cabinet spaces can also be at risk. Freezing can be prevented by allowing faucets to drip slightly and opening cabinet doors so warm air can reach the pipes. Wrapping supply lines with a towel or blanket can also help insulate against dropping temperatures.
- Gardens are also at risk of cold weather damage. The following tips can help protect plants:
- Water: Drought-stressed plants are more likely to be damaged by the cold. Run irrigation systems or hand water the day before a freeze.
- Cover: If you can’t bring plants inside, cover them with a frost cloth or any breathable fabric (not plastic) to keep frost from settling.
- Light: The holidays are over, but miniature, incandescent outdoor string lights or mesh lights can provide enough heat to keep frost from forming.
Additional cold weather tips are available from Orlando Utilities Commission, the City of Orlando, and Orange County government websites.
Sponsor: The Orlando Real is sponsored by the Pozek Group — the #1 real estate team in Orlando and the Official Real Estate Team of the Orlando Magic.
About the Author
Jim Carchidi is an Orlando journalist and photographer with previous work at the Orlando Sentinel and Orlando Business Journal. He covers development, arts, culture, and local stories for The Orlando Real.
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