Orlando, Fla. – Central Florida is experiencing an unseasonably cold snap, with temperatures dropping to the 30s and 40s across the region, accompanied by brisk winds making it feel even chillier. Wind chill factors are starting off the day as low as 20 degrees, prompting residents to bundle up as they step outside. A Cold Weather Advisory is currently active for Marion, Sumter, and Polk counties until 10 a.m., with Friday’s high predicted to reach only around 62 degrees. Fortunately, no rain is expected, allowing for sunny conditions throughout the day.
The week kicked off with the Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend, where runners are taking to the streets dressed in vibrant Disney-themed costumes. This year, participants will be competing against the backdrop of cooler-than-usual temperatures for Florida, which has heightened the challenge for many. Runners planning to participate in the 10K scheduled for Saturday morning will need to prepare for temperatures dipping down to the 40s, with light winds making conditions feel colder.
“Runners will have to power through temps in the 40s, with light winds making it feel even chillier,” noted WKMG. Spectators cheering on the courageous marathon participants are urged to bundle up, as conditions won’t warm significantly until later.
The FOX 35 Storm Team has reported today will be characterized by clear skies, yet strong winds are expected to contribute to the apparent chill. "An abundance of wind looks to make the temperatures feel even chillier," remarked meteorologist Brooks Garner. According to the National Weather Service (NWS) Melbourne, most parts of Central Florida are unlikely to experience temperatures warmer than 65 degrees today, which is 14 degrees below the seasonal norm.
Beachgoers should be cautious, with reports highlighting hazardous boating conditions and high risks of rip currents along the coast. "There's a high risk of rip currents at the beaches with rough surf, though it'll be too cold for most to venture onto the water," added FOX 35, emphasizing the need for safety precautions.
For the rest of the weekend, temperatures are anticipated to rise slightly, reaching the low 70s by Saturday and potentially staying clear throughout. Local meteorologists expect some isolated showers to materialize on Sunday, which may add to the overall variable conditions faced by residents and visitors alike.
Looking ahead, next week is set to bring more pleasant weather as afternoon highs are predicted to climb steadily back toward the lower 80s by Thursday. Previous advisories focused on keeping safe amid the cooler conditions proactively pushed the community to stay updated with local weather developments.
Despite the chilly weather, the Disney Princess Half Marathon is shaping up to be another magical event for participants and spectators alike, with many embracing the change of seasons—albeit bundled up. The enthusiasm felt within the community during such events draws people together, making each chilly moment worthwhile.
Keep tuning in to local news outlets like WKMG and checking ClickOrlando.com for the latest updates on weather conditions and important developments. And don’t forget to share any unique weather moments you might capture during this cold snap!