Florida snow chances shift as state sits under cold warnings

National Weather Service offices across Florida have issued cold-weather warnings as a strong cold front brings the coldest air of the season for some areas and raises model-based snow chances across the U.S. Southeast.

Cold air from a strong frontal system is moving across Florida, and National Weather Service offices have issued cold-weather warnings for much of the state. The incoming air is reported as the coldest of the season in some areas that normally have mild winters. The front followed showers in west-central Florida and is expected to produce the coldest conditions on Friday morning. Forecast models also show rising chances of snow across the U.S. Southeast, including portions of Florida. Key details: - National Weather Service offices have issued freeze warnings, cold-weather advisories and a South Florida cold weather advisory, with advisories extending as far south as Miami and the state's southern tip. - The article reports the Global Forecast System model shows parts of the Florida Panhandle have about a 60% chance of receiving 1 inch or more of snow; parts of Alabama and Georgia are shown with higher chances and coastal South Carolina with lower chances. - Meteorologists warned of sub-freezing overnight lows in northern and central Florida, with some locations expected to reach the low 20s; Miami's average low is about 73 degrees for this time of year, and forecasts put Friday morning temperatures, accounting for wind chill, near 38 degrees. - Forecasts and warnings noted potential impacts to sensitive vegetation and agriculture from freezing temperatures. - Forecasters also reported effects on wildlife and outdoor animals, including that green iguanas can become stunned in the 40s and 30s and may fall from trees. Summary: The cold front has prompted statewide warnings and a notable temperature drop, which forecasters report could affect sensitive crops, outdoor animals and cold-sensitive wildlife. Models and forecasts indicate the highest chances for snow across the Southeast on Sunday, and the coldest conditions are expected Friday morning; further updates were not specified.