Honestly, if you stepped outside in Sarasota this morning expecting that classic "Suncoast" warmth, you probably retreated back inside for a hoodie pretty fast. It’s one of those weird Florida mornings where the palm trees look tropical but the air feels like a crisp autumn day in New England.
We’re currently sitting at 50°F as of late morning on Friday, January 16, 2026. The sky is a blinding, perfect blue—classic sunny conditions—but don’t let the light fool you. With a northeast wind humming at 5 mph and humidity dropped down to 37%, it’s that "dry cold" that actually makes you want to keep the windows shut for once.
Sarasota Florida Forecast: The Weekend Reality Check
So, what are we looking at for the next few days? If you’ve got outdoor plans, you’re basically playing a game of "layer up or stay in." Today, Friday, is going to struggle to hit a high of 57°F. That’s a far cry from our usual balmy January averages. Tonight is going to be even more of a shocker. We’re bracing for a low of 39°F. Yes, you read that right. It’s actually cold enough that local shelters are opening up, which doesn't happen every day in these parts.
Tomorrow, Saturday, January 17, things start to look a bit more "Florida-ish." We’re looking at:
- A much more respectable high of 69°F.
- Sunny skies all day long.
- Northeast winds shifting to the southeast at 7 mph.
- A low of 45°F at night—still chilly, but manageable.
Then Sunday hits. This is where the Sarasota Florida forecast gets a little messy.
By January 18, the wind is expected to kick up significantly, coming from the northwest at 22 mph. That’s enough to make the Gulf look pretty choppy. We’re also looking at a 45% chance of light rain during the day. If you’re planning a beach day at Siesta Key, you might want to pivot to a museum or a long lunch at St. Armands Circle instead. The high will only reach 64°F, and the humidity will spike to 81%, so it’ll feel damp and heavy compared to today’s crisp air.
Why This Winter feels Different on the Suncoast
A lot of people think Florida weather is just a flat line of 80 degrees, but locals know January is the wild card. This current dip is part of a larger rare freeze sweeping the state, with freeze warnings actually popping up in dozens of counties. In Sarasota, we usually hover in the 70s during the day, so this drop into the 50s is a genuine event.
Looking into Next Week
If you can power through the "Sunday scaries" and the rain, next week settles back into a very predictable, sunny rhythm.
Monday, Jan 19, stays cool with a high of 56°F.
Tuesday, Jan 20, bumps up slightly to 61°F.
By Wednesday, Jan 21, we’re back in the high 60s (68°F).
If you’re waiting for the real heat to return, mark Thursday, January 22, on your calendar. That’s when we hit 70°F again, though there is a 70% chance of rain that day. By next weekend, January 24, we’re finally seeing those "brochure temperatures" again with a high of 75°F and clear, sunny skies.
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Basically, the 10-day outlook is a slow climb out of a refrigerator.
Tips for Surviving the Sarasota Chill
If you’re visiting or just moved here, don’t try to "tough it out" in flip-flops today.
- Watch the UV index: Even though it’s cold, the UV index is still sitting at a 3 or 4 most days. You can still get a sunburn while you’re shivering.
- Bring the plants in: With a low of 39°F tonight, those sensitive tropicals on your patio might not be too happy by sunrise.
- Marine safety: If you’re a boater, Sunday is the day to stay at the dock. Those 22 mph northwest winds are no joke in the bay.
The main takeaway? We're in a bit of a cold bubble right now, but it's not permanent. It’s just long enough to make you appreciate the heater in your car before the humidity returns in full force.
Actionable Next Steps:
Keep your heavy sweaters easily accessible through Monday morning. If you have outdoor events planned for Sunday, have a "Plan B" indoor location ready to account for the 45% rain chance and high winds. Check your local county's emergency alerts if you or someone you know needs access to the cold weather shelters opening tonight.