Florida Public Radio Emergency Network

Florida's severe weather week is here. And it's a great reminder that weather disasters can happen all year long - not just during hurricane season. From extreme cold to extreme heat, and everything in between, now is a great time to make sure you're prepared.

Punxsutawney Phil has predicted six more weeks of winter after emerging from Gobbler's Knob in western Pennsylvania.

Freeze alerts are in effect for Sunday night across much of Florida. This prolonged freeze will likely impact the crops in Florida.

AS the cold front pushes through Florida, the winds will pick up and Arctic air sinks over the state. Prepare for extreme cold.

New alerts are in effect for Florida, and watches will likely turn into warnings as soon as Friday, as the extremely cold temperatures will start to take over the state on Saturday and on Sunday for all.

This will not be the coldest air mass of the season, but it could be the coldest air mass felt in over a decade for some. Some flurries are also possible.

Ocean effect snow is a rare phenomenon in Florida. Similar to lake effect snow, it takes place when cold air moves over warm water.

While the winter precipitation and dangerous weather stay well to the north, a cold front will bring cooler weather to Florida this coming week. Freeze and cold alerts are in effect.