Summary
The National Weather Service issued cold weather alerts for almost all of Florida as an arctic blast is expected to bring record-breaking cold temperatures. The warnings focus on protecting vulnerable groups, especially seniors, from potential health risks like frostbite and hypothermia. Florida has around 4.8 million seniors, making up about 20% of the state's population.
Key Facts
- Florida is under cold weather alerts from the National Weather Service due to an approaching arctic blast.
- Record-breaking cold temperatures and possible snow are expected in places like Tampa and near the Bahamas.
- Seniors are especially at risk in cold weather due to physical changes like less body fat and reduced blood flow.
- Over 1,000 people in the U.S. died from cold and hypothermia in 2023, with the most deaths in January.
- Florida has about 4.8 million seniors, approximately 20% of its population.
- Extreme cold warnings will start on Saturday and last through Sunday afternoon.
- Orlando could experience a wind chill as low as 12 degrees, with Jacksonville reaching as low as 5 degrees.
