As Central Florida braces for a significant drop in temperatures, the National Weather Service has announced a freeze watch set for Friday morning, marking the region’s coldest spell in years.

The freeze watch signifies that temperatures could dip to 32 degrees Fahrenheit or lower, a rare occurrence in this typically warm area. Residents in Marion, Sumter, and the northern parts of Lake County are particularly urged to take precautions, as the chill could persist below freezing for an extended period of four to six hours.

To safeguard against potential damage, it’s advisable for homeowners to insulate exterior pipes. Additionally, cold-sensitive plants should be either covered or relocated indoors by Thursday evening to prevent any harm from the icy conditions.

Moreover, it’s essential to ensure that pets are brought indoors to shield them from the unexpected cold snap, ensuring their safety and comfort during this unusually frigid weather.

It’s also a good idea to bring pets inside.

A strong Arctic cold front is expected to arrive Thursday morning. Temperatures top out in the upper 50s and lower 60s early in the day, but are expected to fall for most of the afternoon.

Temperatures will bottom out in the 20s and 30s across Central Florida.

This does not include the wind.

Parts of Central Florida could again dip below freezing Saturday morning.

A reinforcing shot of cold air arrives Sunday which could send parts of Central Florida back below freezing Monday morning.

A big warmup arrives late next work week and into the following weekend.