A rare winter storm that recently impacted the Southern U.S. is finally beginning to thaw as temperatures gradually return to normal this weekend, according to forecasters. The storm, which brought cold air and heavy snow to parts of Texas, Florida, and other Southern states, was described as a once-in-a-generation event. Temperatures began rising on Thursday, but below-freezing conditions overnight have led to the formation of black ice, making roads and walkways hazardous. Black ice is notoriously difficult to spot, increasing the risk of accidents.
As of Friday morning, millions of residents in northern Florida and parts of Alabama and Georgia are under freeze warnings, with expected low temperatures in the 20s and 30s. Highs are predicted to reach the 40s or low 50s in these areas. However, warmer temperatures will begin to emerge over the weekend, with a gradual return to more typical conditions by early next week. The National Weather Service predicts that the thaw will start in Texas, where temperatures should rise significantly by Sunday. Warmer air will then move eastward, reaching Florida, Georgia, and the Carolinas by Monday.
The weather service has urged residents to continue protecting pets, pipes, plants, and people through this cold snap, noting that freezing temperatures could persist through Saturday morning, leading to hazardous conditions. By Sunday, the Tampa Bay area should see daytime highs in the 60s and 70s, with New Orleans expected to experience temperatures in the low 60s. Road conditions in many of the affected regions, including New Orleans, are expected to improve as the weather warms up.
As for Florida’s Gasparilla Pirate Festival in Tampa, attendees will see afternoon temperatures in the low 60s, with clear skies and a high around 62 degrees. The event, featuring a parade and pirate-themed festivities, will follow a freezing morning with lows in the 20s and 30s.
The storm also brought significant snowfall to the region. Pensacola, Florida, set a new state record with 8.9 inches, while New Orleans saw 8 inches of snow—three times the previous record. The Houston-Galveston area also received up to 6 inches of snow.
