The Polar Vortex is Coming to Atlantic Beach

Living in the Sunshine State, we’re no strangers to heat and hurricanes, but when a polar vortex or heavy freeze sweeps in, it’s a whole different ballgame.

For Floridians who aren’t used to icy temperatures, prepping for these rare events can feel overwhelming. Don’t worry—with a little preparation, you can keep your home, family, and sanity intact. (Though honestly, your landscape may still take a hit)

Next week, Atlantic Beach, Florida, will experience unseasonably cold temperatures due to a polar vortex bringing Arctic air into the region.

It has actually snowed in Atlantic Beach before, but it is a rare occurrence. Snowfall in Atlantic Beach is exceedingly uncommon due to its warm, subtropical climate. The last significant snowfall in the Jacksonville area (which includes Atlantic Beach) occurred on December 23, 1989, when the region experienced unusually cold temperatures and recorded trace amounts of snow.

In most winters, temperatures in Atlantic Beach stay well above freezing, making snow an anomaly rather than a typical weather event. The combination of the coastal location and the influence of the Atlantic Ocean generally moderates temperatures, reducing the likelihood of snow.

The Chilly Forecast for Atlantic Beach:

Here’s the detailed forecast for Monday, January 20, to Sunday, January 26, 2025:

Monday	47°44°	Windy in the morning; sun through high clouds and much colder
Tuesday	53°37°	Windy and cool with periods of rain
Wednesday	47°40°	Periods of rain in the morning; otherwise, windy and cold with clouds breaking for some sun
Thursday	52°42°	Considerable clouds, breezy and cool; rain and drizzle in the afternoon
Friday	54°43°	Cool with low clouds; a bit of afternoon rain
Saturday	55°44°	Mostly sunny
Sun, Jan 26	61°49°	Clouds to start, then sunshine returns

Severe Weather Alert:

A Freeze Watch is in effect from late Sunday night through Monday morning, with temperatures potentially dropping as low as 27°F. Residents are advised to protect tender vegetation, ensure outdoor pets have adequate shelter, and take precautions for vulnerable individuals.

Get Your Home Winter-Ready

Floridian homes are built for the heat, not the cold, which means you might need to make a few adjustments to stay warm and comfortable.

• Protect Your Pipes: Pipes in Florida homes aren’t always insulated for freezing weather. Wrap exposed pipes in foam insulation or use heat tape, especially in unheated areas like garages and outdoor spaces.
• Seal Those Drafts: Even small gaps around windows and doors can let in cold air. Use weatherstripping or draft stoppers to keep the chill out and the warmth in.
• Prepare for Power Outages: Freezing weather can bring down power lines. Stock up on flashlights, batteries, and blankets. If you have a portable generator, make sure it’s in working order and ready to go.
• Help Your Plants: Tropical plants don’t love the cold. Move them indoors or cover them with lightweight fabric to shield them from frost.

Don’t Forget Your Outdoor Space

Your outdoor spaces need some attention as well:

• Cover Outdoor Faucets: Use insulated covers to prevent outdoor faucets from freezing. If you don’t have covers, a towel and plastic bag will do in a pinch.
• Prepare for Ice: While snow is unlikely, ice on walkways can still be a hazard. Keep some sand or kitty litter handy to sprinkle on slippery spots.

Winterize Your Car

Driving in freezing weather can be a new experience for Floridians. Here’s how to make sure your car is ready:

• Check Your Antifreeze: Ensure your car’s antifreeze levels are topped off. It’s a small step that can prevent big problems.
• Windshield Wipers and Fluid: Switch to winter-grade windshield wiper fluid and check that your wipers are in good shape.
• Emergency Kit: Add a blanket, snacks, water, and a flashlight to your car. Even in Florida, it’s better to be over-prepared than caught off guard.

Stay Safe and Warm

Since we’re not used to freezing temperatures, staying safe requires a little extra planning.

• Layer Up: Floridians, it’s time to embrace layers! Start with a moisture-wicking base, add a warm middle layer, and finish with a wind-resistant jacket.
• Stock the Pantry: Grocery stores might get busy ahead of a freeze, so stock up on non-perishable food, water, and any medications you might need. Don’t forget pet food and supplies if you have furry friends.
• Stay Informed: Use a reliable weather app or local news source to monitor changing conditions and follow any official advice. Schools may close if the roads are hazardous due to ice.

Tips for When Things Go Wrong

Sometimes, even the best plans hit a snag. Here’s how to handle common freeze-related issues:

• Frozen Pipes: If a pipe freezes, thaw it slowly with a hairdryer or warm towels. Never use an open flame—you don’t want to add “fire damage” to your list of problems.
• Power Outages: Close off unused rooms to keep heat concentrated where you need it. Use portable heaters safely, and never run a generator indoors.
• Community Resources: If your home becomes unlivable, check for warming centers or shelters in your area. Many communities open these during extreme cold snaps.

Floridians might not be used to heavy freezes but with a little preparation, you can handle the cold like a pro. Take the time to protect your home, car, and loved ones, and don’t forget to check on your neighbors, especially the elderly or vulnerable. Stay safe, stay warm, and remember: the sunshine will return soon enough, and we’ll all be back to complaining it’s too hot!