Last Updated on March 19, 2026 by Yilin
Florida is known as the Sunshine State, but sunshine is only part of the story. Florida’s climate is shaped by water, heat, and seasonal weather patterns. Warm oceans surround the state, and underground aquifers store large amounts of water. These factors help drive Florida’s weather.
During the first Water Wednesday webinar, we explored how Florida’s seasons work and why weather here can feel different from many other parts of the country.
Florida Is Warm and Humid
Florida is the warmest and one of the most humid states in the continental U.S. In the summer, the air often feels very moist. This is because the dew point is high, often above 70°F.
Rainfall is also common, but it does not fall evenly across the state. Some areas receive more rain than others.
- The Panhandle and southeast Florida tend to be wetter.
- The Florida Keys and parts of the central peninsula are usually drier.
Even though Florida gets a lot of rain each year, dry periods still happen.
Winter: Cool Fronts and Occasional Freezes
Winter in Florida lasts from December through February. Compared with many states, winters here are mild. However, temperatures can change quickly when cold fronts move through the state.
In northern Florida, temperatures sometimes drop below freezing. This can damage crops and sensitive plants.
Snow is rare, but it can happen. In January 2025, parts of the Florida Panhandle received about 10 inches of snow, breaking local records.
Winter weather in Florida is also affected by a global climate pattern called the El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO).
- El Niño years often bring cooler and wetter winters to Florida.
- La Niña years usually bring warmer and drier winters.
Spring: A Time of Change
Spring in Florida runs from March through May. Temperatures warm quickly during this time.
Spring is also the dry season, which means rainfall is usually lower. Because of this, drought and wildfire risk can increase.
Another challenge is late-season freezes. Many plants begin growing early in Florida. If a freeze happens in late winter or early spring, it can damage crops and gardens.
Summer: Heat, Rain, and Thunderstorms
Florida’s summer runs from June through August and is known as the wet season.
About two-thirds of Florida’s yearly rainfall happens during these months. Much of this rain comes from afternoon thunderstorms.
Summer weather also brings:
- High heat and humidity
- Heat index values above 100°F
- Frequent lightning
Florida has one of the highest lightning rates in the United States, especially during summer storms. This is why it is important to move indoors when thunder is heard.
Another trend scientists are watching is that nighttime temperatures are rising faster than daytime temperatures in many parts of the state.
Fall: Hurricane Season
Fall in Florida lasts from September through November. This time of year overlaps with hurricane season, which runs from June 1 through November 30.
The peak of hurricane season usually occurs in mid-September.
Tropical storms and hurricanes can bring large amounts of rain in a short time. For example, Hurricane Ian in 2022 dropped nearly 20 inches of rain in parts of Central Florida.
However, if no tropical systems arrive, Florida can quickly move into dry conditions or flash drought.
Along coastal areas, fall also brings king tides, which are the highest tides of the year. These tides can cause flooding in some low-lying areas even when no storms are present.
You Can Help Track Florida’s Rain
Florida’s weather varies a lot from place to place. One way residents can help is by joining CoCoRaHS, the Community Collaborative Rain, Hail, and Snow Network.
CoCoRaHS volunteers measure rainfall in their own backyards and report it online. These reports help scientists, weather forecasters, and emergency managers better understand local conditions.
Highlights From Participants
Are Florida nights getting warmer?
Yes. In many parts of Florida, nighttime temperatures are rising faster than daytime temperatures. Some areas now experience several more weeks of warm nights each year compared to a few decades ago.
What are King Tides?
King tides are the highest tides of the year. They usually happen in the fall. In some coastal areas, these tides can now cause flooding even when there is no storm, partly because sea levels are rising.
Watch the Recording
February 2026 Water Wednesday: Florida Weather and Seasons
Join the Next Water Wednesday Webinar: Florida Water 101
Understanding Florida’s weather is just the beginning. In our next webinar, we will take a closer look at Florida’s water system.
Florida Water 101 will cover questions such as:
- Where does Florida’s drinking water come from?
- What is the Floridan Aquifer?
- How do rainfall, springs, rivers, and groundwater connect?
- Why is water conservation important in Florida?
This session will help new residents understand how water moves through Florida’s environment and why it matters for daily life.
- Next Webinar: Florida Water 101
- Time: March 25, 2-3 PM ET
- Register via Zoom
Whether you are new to Florida or have lived here for years, this webinar will provide a helpful overview of how Florida’s water resources work. More information please visit UF/IFAS Extension Water Resources Program.
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