Assessment of Agricultural Losses Resulting from the Winter 2026 Freeze Events
Summary
Florida has experienced multiple low-temperature and freeze events between late December 2025 and early February 2026 due to a series of Arctic air intrusions. An initial freeze occurred from December 30 to January 1, followed by additional freeze events in mid-January and a prolonged cold period beginning in late January. Repeated exposure to freezing temperatures can cause significant losses and damages for agricultural operations, especially when exposure is prolonged. Data are being collected using the Assessment of Losses and Damages to Florida Agriculture from Hazard/Disaster Events tool, which has been used to assess several recent events, including winter storms Enzo and Finn, as well as Hurricanes Michael, Ian, Idalia, Debby, Helene, and Milton.
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