Florida's Climate Extremes: From Scorching Heat to Rare Freezes

Florida's humid subtropical climate delivers steamy summers and mild winters – but the extremes tell a wilder story.

Seasonal Patterns

Wet Season (May–November)

• Daily highs: 88–92°F (31–33°C)
• Daily lows: 72–76°F (22–24°C)
• Afternoon thunderstorms near-daily
• Hurricane risk: June–November (peak Aug–Oct)
• Annual rainfall: ~54 inches (1,372 mm)

Dry Season (December–April)

• Daily highs: 70–77°F (21–25°C)
• Daily lows: 50–60°F (10–16°C)
• Lower humidity, rare rain
• Occasional cold fronts drop temps further

All-Time Records

Regional Variations

• South Florida/Keys: True tropical – virtually frost-free, warmest winters in continental US
• Central Florida (Orlando): Occasional light freezes (30s°F)
• North Florida/Panhandle: Regular winter freezes, rare snow (Jan 2018, Jan 2014)
• Inland vs. Coast: Inland areas hotter summers, colder winters

Climate Change Impacts

• Rising sea levels threaten coastal aquifers (saltwater intrusion)
• Increasing hurricane intensity (not necessarily frequency)
• More extreme heat days; warmer nights
• Shifted growing zones affecting agriculture (citrus, strawberries)

Florida's climate is a major economic driver (tourism, agriculture, retirement migration) – and its most vulnerable asset.