Florida shivers as record warmth boosts Plains fire risk

Winter’s coldest weather has descended on the Sunshine State. Saturday readings may rebound no higher than the low and mid 60s in Miami, Ft. Lauderdale, West Palm Beach and Fort Myers, and could hold to the upper 50s in Tampa and Orlando. Up to six hours of subfreezing temperatures were predicted across north Florida overnight while local 20° wind chills prompted advisories. Wind chill advisories are hoisted in Florida anytime three or more hours of sub-35° chills are predicted.
In stark contrast, record warmth, bone-dry single-digit humidities and gusty winds threaten fast-moving wildfires in the Plains if residents of nine states aren’t careful Saturday. The region remains locked in drought with little relief yet in sight.
Chicago is in the midst of a snow drought. The meager 0.3” of snow here since mid-December is the least on record for the period in 62 years.