Highs in the 40s, lows in the 20s, wind chills approaching the single-digits.
We don't do this all the time in Osceola County and Central Florida. But a polar vortex is primed to send temperatures to lows we haven't seen since 2010, and before that, 1989.
Power companies like OUC and Kissimmee Utility Authority will work overtime to keep the power on to keep everyone warm and cozy. But, to prevent any service interruptions or rolling blackouts, the utilities are asking customers to adjust a bit, especially during the peaking heating times of 6-9 a.m. and 6-9 p.m.
Here's some ideas if this is your first Florida cold snap:
Keep thermostats at the lowest comfortable setting. KUA suggests 68 degrees (and throw on another layer if you're chilly); OUC even suggests going down to 65 at night, and then throwing on another blanket.
Blinds and drapes can be used to keep the cold air out at night, and opened to let the warm sun rays in (the high temperature Sunday won't reach 50, but it'll be sunny).
During peak hours, avoid using pool heaters, electric vehicle chargers and unnecessary kitchen appliances.
Reverse ceiling fans to circulate warm air. Fans should rotate clockwise at a low speed during winter.
Use space heaters — and not stoves, ovens, grills or propane heaters — carefully. Plug heaters directly into wall outlets and never use extension cords. Keep heaters away from walls, curtains, furniture, paper, rugs, and other combustible materials. Those other heat sources can be a carbon monoxide risk.
Electric blankets are great — but don't tuck them in. Trapped heat and poor ventilation can cause overheating and become a fire hazard.
Fireplaces are also a bonus. Just open the flue.
As for water — drip faucets that have pipes that run outside. Run your pool pump to prevent frozen lines. Insulate what you can.
Bring the plants you can move inside. Outdoor in-ground plants should be covered with sheeting or draperies that reach the ground, trapping heat underneath and protecting the plants from frost or freezing.
And what's this we've heard about ... SNOW? While there is a chance of precipitation ahead of the cold front that's bringing this chilly weather, it would be rain here in Osceola County. The west coast, from Tampa and points north have about 20% chance of seeing "Gulf-effect snow" (think lake-effect snow in the Great Lakes region). Stay tuned ... and send us any pictures
