Created: 12/14/2004 1:13:10 PM 
By Meteorologist Mark Collins and First Coast News Staff
The First Coast is getting hit by the first freeze of the season. The coldest weather of the season is here. Expect it to be much colder than yesterday morning?s low of 38. The entire viewing area is under a freeze warning for temperatures that will range from 35 to 25 degrees.
Areas west of I-95 will see a hard freeze with temperatures dropping to the mid to upper 20s by dawn. These areas will drop below freezing for 6 to 8 hours. The northwest wind will keep temps very close to freezing at the beach, but the immediate coast is not under a freeze warning.
Thursday morning will be very cold again. A freeze watch is posted for temps just a couple degrees warmer than tonight. Winds will be lighter Wednesday night and frost will be more widespread.
Overnight, windchills will be in the teens west of I-95 and 20s closer to the coast. Look for a slight moderation through Friday followed by cooler weather next weekend.
At least one shelter will open tonight. The Salvation Army will open the gymnasium at their Army Corps Center at 15 East Church Street in downtown Jacksonville.
Some safety tips as you prepare to keep warm:
Install a carbon monoxide detector especially if you're using a wood burning fireplace, if your heater sparks, overheats or has an unusual smell replace it. Make sure you have a smoke detector. Free smoke detectors are being offered to residents in Duval County. Call (904)630-7842 for more information.Related links:
First Coast Five Day Forecast Red Cross - Staying Safe in Cold Weather Extreme Cold Prevention Guide Frequently asked questions about hypothermia, wind chill, frostbite? Protect Yourself from Carbon Monoxide Poisioning Cold Weather Tips for Pets Cold Weather Pet Tips for Kids Plant Care in Emergencies ©2009 First Coast News. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, rewritten, or redistributed.
