Southern States Face Renewed Cold Front Amid Power Outages
A new arctic blast is impacting the Southern United States, less than a week after an ice storm caused widespread disruption. The National Weather Service has issued cold weather alerts across Texas, Tennessee, and Florida, warning of dangerously low temperatures and the risk of hypothermia.
Current Impacts and Fatalities
The previous winter storm resulted in several dozen fatalities across multiple states due to hypothermia, suspected carbon monoxide poisoning, and various accidents.
"Tens of thousands of residents in states such as Tennessee and Mississippi remain without electricity, exacerbating the risks posed by the frigid conditions."
Forecast for Southern Regions
Temperatures are projected to drop into the teens in parts of Tennessee and northern Mississippi by Friday night, with lows in the 20s extending into Louisiana. Gusty winds are expected to create wind chills near or below zero in central Tennessee and northern Mississippi by Saturday morning. Daytime highs on Saturday are forecast to reach only 21 degrees in Nashville and 26 degrees in Oxford, Mississippi.
"Infrastructure in states like Tennessee and Mississippi is often designed for hurricanes and extreme heat, not ice storms, making power restoration more challenging."
Heavy snow and blizzard conditions are also possible this weekend across eastern Tennessee, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and northeastern Georgia. The bitter cold is expected to subside by early next week, with temperatures rising into the 40s and 50s.
Florida Prepares for Historic Freeze
Florida is anticipating a brief but intense cold snap, with some areas potentially experiencing the coldest temperatures in over 15 years. Actual air temperatures are forecast to dip into the 20s by Sunday morning across much of the state, including Tallahassee, Jacksonville, and Orlando, potentially challenging daily record lows.
Freeze conditions are likely to damage crops and sensitive vegetation and could impact unprotected outdoor plumbing. Miami could see temperatures in the mid-30s, potentially the coldest since December 2010. Orlando's forecast low of 24 degrees on Sunday morning could be its coldest since December 2010.
Agricultural and Wildlife Preparations
Florida's agricultural industry, which exports various crops during winter, is preparing for the freezing temperatures. Farmers have already reported frost damage to crops like snap beans, sweet corn, and bell peppers. Florida citrus growers have activated frost protection practices to safeguard root systems and moderate air temperatures around trees. Growers are experienced in managing such weather events, but potential impacts will depend on the duration and severity of the cold.
"Reptiles in the state, such as iguanas and alligators, are expected to become 'cold-stunned'."
Zoos like ZooMiami and Jungle Island are taking precautions, moving sensitive animals indoors to heated structures or providing access to flowing water for crocodilians. Primates are given blankets, and animals receive extra food to help them maintain body heat. Strong, gusty winds accompanying the cold front on Saturday could complicate final preparations.