It probably isn’t a common occurrence for you to hear the words “freezing” and “Florida” in the same sentence. However, there have been quite a few instances throughout Florida’s history where temperatures reached below freezing. Does anyone else remember when Tampa froze over on December 13, 1962, when the temperature fell to 18 degrees?! What about on January 19, 1977, when snow fell in South Florida for the very first time? Well, if you thought those winter weather events in Florida couldn’t be beaten, think again. Back in December 1894, some of the coldest temperatures were ever recorded throughout the state. 

One of the coldest days in Orlando’s history, as well as the rest of the state, took place in December 1894.
Flickr espie
The record-low temperature in Orlando hit just 18 degrees, which, if you’re familiar with the usually warm winters in Central Florida, you’d know this was quite cold!
Flickr Pictoscribe
This isn’t even the coldest temperature recorded that month. In Tallahassee, the temperatures dropped to 15 degrees. In Avon Park, the temperatures dropped to 24 degrees, while Fort Myers hit 28 degrees.
Flickr Jimmy Emerson DVM

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When freezes hit Florida, because so unexpected, the damage can be tremendous.
Flickr Martin Fisch
Compared to other states, the state doesn’t have comprehensive methods of preserving roads and such from winter complications.
Flickr Taymaz Valley
In addition, agriculture suffers, too. “Impact freezes,” as they are called, are what influenced much of the retreat of Florida orange groves in the northern parts of the state, which once flourished.
Flickr Scott Smith
Thankfully, winters in Florida since then have been relatively mild, although we have seen a few wilder-than-normal scenarios throughout the years.
Flickr Gardening Solutions

Did you know about these winter weather events in Florida? Do you remember another winter that was particularly cold in the Sunshine State? Share with us your thoughts in the comments section! Or, if you want to know more about the winter weather forecast in Florida, make sure you check the most reliable source, the Farmer’s Almanac!

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