ORLANDO, Florida. – Central Florida might experience record-breaking cold temperatures over the holiday weekend, triggering wind chill and frost warnings.
The National Weather Service (NWS, for its acronym) forecast freezing temperatures starting Friday, when dozens of people are expected to gather to celebrate Christmas.
Sergio González, a weather expert on Telemundo 31, explains that the significant drop in temperatures occurs just two days before the start of the winter season.
It also warns of the danger of the cold, especially for Florida residents, who are not accustomed to freezing temperatures in the 30-degree range.
In fact, the last time Florida experienced temperatures close to those forecast was in January 2018, when the thermometer dropped to 27 degrees.
The record of the minimum temperatures of the NWS show that, in December of last year, the minimum temperatures fluctuated between the range of 40 degrees.
Caution once morest freezing temperatures in Florida
If you just moved from a country with a warm climate and are not used to dress in layersthe NWS explains that for extremely cold temperatures people should dress in at least three layers of clothing, a hat, gloves, ear muffs for the cold, a scarf, and boots.
While the Orange County Fire Department asks people to be careful with the use of heaters due to the possibility of fire.
The National Protection Association detailed that half of home fires occur from December to January, when temperatures drop significantly and noted that the space heaters They are one of the main causes of accidents.
In accordance with said association, at least 3 feet away from flammable objects so that they are safe such as curtains, sheets, animals, children and the elderly.
¿How to take care of my pet in the midst of extreme cold?
In the midst of low temperatures, pets must be in a warm, dry place and must be provided with food and water.
You can also make sure your pet has sheets or sweaters to withstand the cold.
¿How I care for my plants in the midst of freezing temperatures?
Low temperatures affect plant life. To avoid setbacks, you must make sure that the earth is moist a few days before the arrival of the cold.
You should also move them to areas that are usually warmer inside the house and you can also cover them with plant protectors so they are not affected.
Rise in energy consumption
Utility companies are likely to experience some of the highest energy consumption of the year as heating systems come online.
The Kissimmee Utility Authority (KUA) advises keeping your thermostat at 68 degrees during the day because every degree you raise your thermostat will cost you regarding eight percent more.
They also warn regarding carbon monoxide poisoning. KUA explains that all indoor heaters such as wood stoves or kerosene heaters must have adequate ventilation to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
Also, they advise once morest using the oven to heat a room.
