Florida Forecast: Record Highs to Leave Millions Facing Cold

Bassyonni

Published: January 24, 2026 8:31 AM ET

The United States is bracing for a major winter storm. This comes amid an interesting temperature anomaly in Florida, where cities are experiencing unseasonably high readings. The Sunshine State is forecasting record-high temperatures before a significant cold front sweeps through early next week.

Florida Forecast: Record Highs to Leave Millions Facing Cold

On January 22, 2024, Ochopee, Florida, recorded the highest temperature in the country at 86°F. This notable weather event underscores the dramatic temperature contrast across the nation, with other areas experiencing frigid conditions. For instance, several locations in Montana and Minnesota reported lows of -34°F.

Ochopee and Its Context

Ochopee is situated in Collier County in Southwest Florida. It lies approximately 30 miles southeast of Naples and 65 miles west of Miami. The National Weather Service (NWS) expects Florida’s temperatures to remain well above normal before dropping significantly after Sunday, January 25.

Upcoming Weather Patterns

High Temperatures: Florida could see temperatures 15°F above normal this week, reaching the upper 70s and low 80s.
Cold Front Arrival: A strong cold front is predicted to move in late Sunday, causing temperatures to plummet.
Cold Weather Advisory: Temperatures will fall into the upper teens and low 20s after the front moves through.

The NWS has noted a high chance (>70%) of a hard freeze affecting much of Florida from Monday night through Wednesday. Wind chills may dip into the teens in various regions, especially inland, making for a stark contrast to the warmth experienced earlier in the week.

Regional Forecasts for Florida

Northeast Florida: Expect inland freezes and temperatures in the 40s and 50s starting Monday.
Central Florida: Highs in the upper 80s earlier in the week may give way to lower 30s after the cold front arrives.
South Florida: Temperatures in the low to mid 80s will likely drop to the upper 30s and low 40s post-front.

Expected Weather Effects

This sudden shift from warm to cold prompts precautions. Residents should prepare for potential strong storms on January 25. These could bring damaging winds and possible tornadoes. The NWS has raised alerts in anticipation of severe weather patterns resulting from the cold front.

Weather-related safety tips include ensuring space heaters are equipped with auto shutoff features and avoiding methods like using gas stoves for heating. Staying informed about the latest weather updates is crucial, particularly as conditions evolve. Sign up for weather alerts to stay ahead of changing conditions.

As Florida experiences this unusual weather swing, millions across the country will face harsh winter weather, making it essential to remain informed and prepared.