You've probably seen the postcard version of South Florida in your head: swaying palms, scorching sun, and tourists sweating through their linen shirts. But if you’re looking at the weather this weekend West Palm Beach is serving up for January 17th and 18th, you might want to swap that tank top for a light hoodie.
It's going to be gorgeous. Honestly. But "Florida warm" is a relative term this time of year.
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A cold front is basically dictating the vibe for the next few days. While the rest of the country is digging out of snowdrifts, we’re looking at a refreshing, crisp stretch that’s perfect for the South Florida Fair or a stroll down Clematis Street, provided you aren't expecting a 90-degree beach day. Saturday starts the trend with a high of 71°F, while Sunday dips even further to a high of 68°F.
The Cold Front Reality Check
Most people think Florida stays at a constant simmer. That’s a myth.
The National Weather Service in Miami is tracking a shift that brings drier air and cooler northerly winds into Palm Beach County. Saturday will feel "partly sunny," which is meteorologist-speak for "bring sunglasses but don't be surprised when a cloud blocks the heat for twenty minutes." The humidity is sitting at a comfortable 59%, so you won’t feel that heavy, sticky air that usually defines our climate.
By Sunday, the sky clears out completely.
The wind will pick up a bit, coming from the northwest at about 12 mph. This might not sound like much, but on the water, it’ll create a noticeable chop. If you're planning on taking a boat out out of Lake Worth Inlet, be prepared for a bit of a bumpy ride compared to the glass-like conditions we sometimes see in the summer.
The real shocker is the overnight temperature. Sunday night is projected to hit 50°F. For locals, that’s basically an ice age. For visitors from Ohio, it’s a spring dream. Regardless of where you’re from, the temperature swing from a daytime 71 to a nighttime 50 is significant.
Weekend Schedule and Weather Impact
If you are heading out to the South Florida Fair on Southern Boulevard, Saturday is your best bet for walking around without a jacket. The fairgrounds are expansive, and that 71-degree peak will feel great under the sun. However, the "Party With the Pirates" theme might be a bit more authentic on Sunday with those gusty northwest winds.
The WPB GreenMarket on Saturday morning is going to be prime.
Expect temperatures in the low 60s around 9:00 AM when the market opens. It’s the kind of weather where a hot coffee from a local vendor actually tastes good rather than making you sweat.
- Saturday, Jan 17: High of 71°F, Low of 56°F. 15% chance of a stray shower.
- Sunday, Jan 18: High of 68°F, Low of 50°F. Pure sunshine, but cooler.
The UV index is sitting at a 3 or 4. Don't let the cooler air fool you into thinking you won't burn. Florida's sun is closer to the equator, and even at 68 degrees, it can do a number on your skin if you’re out at the South Florida Strawberry Festival in Boca or watching the polo matches in Wellington.
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What to Actually Wear
Forget the flip-flops for the evening.
If you’re dining at a "Swank Table" dinner or hitting Art After Dark at the Norton, you’ll want layers. A light jacket or a denim coat is the standard West Palm "winter" uniform. Because the air is so dry this weekend, the shade will feel significantly colder than the sun.
Is it beach weather? Maybe for a walk.
The sea temperature is hovering around 75°F, which is actually warmer than the air on Sunday. However, the wind chill coming off the Atlantic will make getting out of the water pretty miserable. Most people will be sticking to the sand rather than the surf.
Actionable Tips for the Weekend
Since the weather this weekend West Palm Beach is trending cooler and drier, you should adjust your plans to maximize the conditions.
First, prioritize outdoor activities on Sunday. While it’s cooler, the 0% chance of rain and total lack of clouds make it the "prettier" day for photography or exploring the Manatee Lagoon. The manatees actually love this weather; when the Intracoastal water temperatures drop, they flock to the warm water outflows of the power plant.
Second, check your tire pressure. Sudden drops in temperature—like the one we're seeing Saturday night into Sunday—often trigger those annoying "low pressure" lights on your dashboard.
Finally, if you’re an avid gardener, the Sunday night low of 50°F isn't quite a freeze, but it's cold enough to stress some of your more delicate tropical hibiscus or orchids. Move them closer to the house or bring them inside if they’re in pots.
Enjoy the "winter" while it lasts. In three months, we'll all be begging for a 68-degree day again.