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Here’s a look at what you should do in extreme temperatures and how to stay safe during wildfire activity.
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Severe Weather Awareness Week continues Friday with a focus on temperature extremes and wildfires, both of which pose risks to Florida residents.
Temperature extremes in Florida
Florida has experienced both ends of the temperature spectrum. The state’s coldest recorded temperature was -2 degrees Fahrenheit in Tallahassee on Feb. 13, 1899. On the opposite extreme, Monticello recorded Florida’s highest temperature at 109 degrees in 1931. More recently, in 2010, the heat index reached 124 degrees at Apalachicola Airport.
Staying safe in extreme temperatures
- Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing
- Avoid outdoor activities during peak heat hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.)
- Stay hydrated with water or non-alcoholic, non-caffeinated beverages
- Check on vulnerable populations, including the elderly, young children and pets
- Apply sunscreen before sun exposure
Cold weather safety: The Five P’s
- Protect People: Dress in layers, wear hats and gloves, and stay dry and sheltered from the wind. Check on children and elderly individuals who are more sensitive to cold.
- Protect Plants: Bring potted plants indoors and cover outdoor plants with blankets or tarps.
- Protect Pets: Bring pets indoors or provide well-insulated shelter. Heated water bowls can prevent freezing, and additional food can help outdoor animals maintain their energy levels.
- Protect Pipes: Cover exposed pipes and allow outdoor faucets to drip slowly to prevent freezing and bursting.
- Practice Fire Safety: Use indoor heating sources safely. Avoid fuel-burning devices like grills indoors, as they emit carbon monoxide. Follow space heater instructions and remain cautious around open flames.
Wildfire preparedness and prevention
Florida experiences significant wildfire activity, with more than 3,000 fires burning nearly 163,500 acres of land each year. Controlled burns help mitigate the risk of large-scale wildfires, but history has shown the potential for devastating blazes. In 1998, wildfires swept through the First Coast, including Flagler County, forcing an evacuation of the entire county and destroying thousands of acres and dozens of homes.
To stay safe during wildfire events, it is recommended to do the following:
- Monitor active wildfires in your area
- Use an N95 mask to reduce smoke inhalation if near a fire
- Prepare a wildfire evacuation plan with your family
For more information on everything discussed during Severe Weather Awareness Week, click here. You can also find the latest weather forecast and discussion breaking down the extended outlook there.
