Forecast: Chilly night, but warmer weekend ahead

TAMPA (FOX 13) - A freeze warning was issued Wednesday for parts of north and central Florida ahead of another chilly night in the Sunshine State.  Temperatures are expected to dip below freezing as far south as Levy and Marion counties.

“There is no freeze warning in our northern counties, however I do think there may be a brief light freeze in Hernando or Citrus counties,” FOX 13 meteorologist Tyler Eliasen warned.

Even if the immediate Tampa Bay area doesn’t dip below 32, the National Weather Service says patchy frost is possible across the region.  Urban areas around Tampa are expected to bottom out at 43, with lower temperatures in the outlying communities.

Wednesday, temperatures didn’t make it out of the 60s, despite plenty of blue skies and sunshine.

“It’s gorgeous looking, but it’s still on the cool side, especially with the wind blowing around,” Tyler offered. “I think tomorrow morning will be the coldest morning of this stretch.”

The cool air will stick around for at least another day.  Lows Thursday night and into Friday will also be in the 40s, but slightly warmer.  

That trend continues just in time for the weekend.

“I have temperatures around 80 for us here in Tampa by Sunday and into Monday of next week,” Tyler added.

LINK: FOX 13 weather forecast