Website for visitors to Florida, the greatest holiday destination in the world
Florida is divided into two climatic zones: warm temperate in the north and tropical in the south. That said, most of the sunshine state experiences warm weather and plenty of sunshine year round.
The summer months in southern Florida can become very hot and sometimes uncomfortable when it gets exceptionally humid. The north is milder, but still very warm. Summers are long, hot, and humid throughout the state, (70% humidity or more) with temperatures averaging in the high 80s to mid 90s (30-35°C) during June, July, and August. Being tropical, the period from late spring to early autumn tends to see a lot of rainfall, which can occur on an almost daily basis. However, these showers generally arrive in the form of thunderstorms, which can appear out of nowhere on a clear day, and then disappear just as quickly. They do little to alleviate the heat and humidity.
For tips and suggestions on what to pack when visiting Florida in the summer months, check out "How to Pack for a Summer Trip to Florida."
In winter, the weather stays relatively warm but is generally much drier. From early November to late May showers are few and far between. The average temperature in Florida during the winter months is in the low to mid 60s (near 17°C), occasionally getting up into the high 70s (near 25°C). Frost is not unheard of (especially in January and February) in northern areas, so a light jumper is sometimes needed even during the day, and a warmer jacket is often required at night. Snow is a very rare occurrence in Florida, although it has been known to occur in the Panhandle in the north of the state.
Pictured above is a palm tree during sunset.
Florida has early and warm springs and long autumns that sometimes last well into December. Skies are usually clear, humidity is low, and light showers are only an occasional occurrence. Highs in the spring and autumn hover in the low 80s (26-29°C).
Visitors come to Florida all year round for its popular family resorts and beaches. The winter and spring are the most common times for people to visit, particularly the popular Orlando area which can be uncomfortably hot during the summer months. Because it's inland, there are no ocean breezes to relieve any of the humidity, and theme parks and golf courses can feel incredibly hot.
Hurricane season in Florida lasts from June 1st to November 30th (although they have been known to occur outside of this period), with the most probability of one arriving between August and October.
Hurricanes are violent tropical storms with sustained winds of at least 74 mph. They form over warm ocean waters, and occasionally move inland causing severe damage. Hurricanes originate in the tropical parts of the Atlantic Ocean or the Caribbean Sea and generally move northward. They lose force when they move over land or colder ocean waters. Some hurricanes are stronger than others, and it's important to be aware if one is headed your way.
Pictured above is a homeowner taking stock during Hurricane Wilma.
If traveling to Florida during hurricane season, keep up to date with the NOAA (National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration) National Weather Service whose job it is to report the position and intensity of storms. Often referred to as the National Hurricane Center, they forecast the future movements of storms and are generally regarded as the most accurate outlet for hurricane information. Before embarking on your trip, consult your travel provider about what to do in case of a hurricane (what to do if you must leave the state, hurricane insurance, etc.).
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