South Florida Weather Update

Introduction to the Cold Front

Monday morning saw South Florida still warm and muggy, with a potent November cold front slowly approaching. Temperatures in the mid-70s were expected to reach into the low-80s before the bottom drops out as the wind begins to pick up.

The real turn in the forecast arrives Tuesday morning, with significant changes expected.

Temperature Drop and Records

Near-record low temperatures are possible for Miami and Key West. Overnight lows are expected to fall into the upper-40s for Broward and Miami Dade, while the Florida Keys are predicted to fall into the upper-50s. If Miami hits 48 degrees, this will tie the record for Nov. 11, previously set in 1913. Fort Lauderdale’s record for Nov. 11 is 41, so temperatures probably won’t break the record there. Meanwhile, if Key West hits 57 degrees, that will also tie the record set in 1913.

Wind and Sea Conditions

Wind gusts are expected to be 25 to 30 mph at times, making it feel about 5 degrees cooler than actual air temperatures. Small craft advisories are in effect for seas 7 to 10 feet, and rip current dangers are also elevated. Wind chills are likely to be in the low 40s right around sunrise. Then, the warmup takes over, and high temperatures will struggle to reach 70 degrees on Tuesday.

Will Iguanas Fall Out of the Trees on Tuesday?

Additionally, falling iguanas are not out of the question! They typically slow down with temperatures closer to 50 degrees and become cold-stunned with temps closer to 45 degrees. Last time it got this chilly, there were reports of slow iguanas falling out of the trees, so it is possible.

Future Forecast

Today and Tonight

• Today: Partly sunny, with a high near 83. West wind 5 to 15 mph becoming northwest. Winds could gust as high as 25 mph.
• Tonight: Partly cloudy, with a low around 48. Breezy, with a northwest wind 15 mph, with gusts as high as 30 mph.

Veterans Day and Beyond

• Veterans Day: Mostly sunny, with a high near 68. Breezy, with a north wind around 15 mph, with gusts as high as 30 mph.
• Wednesday: Partly sunny, with a high near 76. Northeast wind 10 mph.
• Thursday: Partly sunny, with a high near 78. Northeast wind 10 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.

Conclusion

The cold front bringing temperatures down into the 40s in South Florida is a significant early-season drop. Residents should be prepared for chilly conditions, especially on Tuesday, and be aware of the potential for falling iguanas due to the cold. As the week progresses, temperatures are expected to warm back up, returning to more typical South Florida weather by the end of the week.

FAQs

• Q: How low will the temperatures drop?
  • A: Overnight lows are expected to fall into the upper-40s for Broward and Miami Dade, and into the upper-50s for the Florida Keys.
• Q: Are falling iguanas a concern?
  • A: Yes, with temperatures expected to drop near 50 degrees, iguanas may become cold-stunned and potentially fall from trees.
• Q: How long will the cold weather last?
  • A: The cold air begins to retreat as early as Wednesday morning, with temperatures warming back into the low- to mid-70s by the end of the week.