Florida Faces New Year’s Eve Freeze Threat As Falling Iguana Alert Issued Across The State
FLORIDA — A blast of cold air arriving on New Year’s Eve is expected to trigger widespread falling iguanas across Florida, as temperatures drop sharply after sunset. The unusual event, which occurs during strong winter cold snaps, happens when green iguanas become stunned and lose their grip due to rapidly falling temperatures.
Temperatures Expected To Drop Suddenly Across Florida
Forecasters say temperatures will fall into the 30s and low 40s across northern and central Florida late on December 31, with even parts of South Florida dropping low enough to affect reptiles. The cold snap will mark a sudden shift from the warm weather earlier in the week.
Green iguanas become immobilized when temperatures fall below roughly 45 degrees, causing them to fall from trees until their bodies warm up again. While most recover once the sun comes up, their temporary paralysis often leads to surprising thuds and unexpected encounters for residents.
Why Iguanas Fall During Florida Cold Snaps
Experts explain that iguanas enter a temporary cold-induced paralysis, not death. Their muscles shut down, leaving them unable to cling to branches. Once temperatures rise, the reptiles typically regain full movement, though they may behave unpredictably as they warm up.
These incidents are most common in areas with dense iguana populations, including Miami-Dade, Broward, Palm Beach, Collier, and Lee counties, as well as parts of central Florida.
Safety Concerns For Residents On New Year’s Eve
With holiday celebrations taking place outdoors, officials warn that people may mistakenly assume falling sounds are fireworks or gunshots. In reality, many of those noises may be large iguanas hitting the ground after losing their grip overnight.
Authorities advise residents to:
• Avoid parking vehicles under trees
• Be cautious while walking beneath heavy branches
• Expect “thud” sounds that signal cold-stunned iguanas, not explosions
People are also encouraged not to touch the reptiles, as they may wake suddenly and react aggressively once warmed.
Cold Expected To Peak Overnight Into January 1
Weather models indicate that the coldest temperatures will occur just after midnight, lining up with Florida’s busiest outdoor celebrations. This raises the potential for higher-than-usual iguana drops across the state.
While the cold snap will be brief, it will be strong enough to impact wildlife statewide, especially in northern and central Florida.
Residents Encouraged To Stay Alert
Officials emphasize that while falling iguanas are mostly a nuisance rather than a danger, they can still cause unexpected hazards. As Floridians welcome the new year, they are encouraged to stay aware of their surroundings and remain cautious near trees and outdoor gathering areas. For continued updates on Florida’s weather and public safety alerts, visit SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
