PALM BEACH COUNTY, Fla. — South Florida is preparing for some of the coldest and windiest conditions the area has seen in years, prompting closures and safety precautions across the region.
Closures
West Palm Beach GreenMarket is canceled Saturday, Jan. 31, due to "inclement weather"
The Walk-Up Food Pantry in Wellington is closed Friday, Jan. 30 due to weather. The pantry said it will continue normal operations next Friday, Feb. 6 at Wellington's Community Center, pending weather.
The Gardens GreenMarket said it has canceled its event on Sunday, Feb. 1 event due to forecasted weather conditions and safety concerns.
Palm Beach Gardens Aquatic Complex will be closed on Sunday, Feb. 1 as officials prioritize public safety.
Indian River County will temporarily close the North County Aquatic Center and the Gifford Aquatic Center Saturday, Jan. 31 at noon to ensure the safety of patrons, staff and facilities.
The North County Aquatic Center will reopen once conditions improve, specifically when ambient and “real feel” temperatures rise above 50 degrees, and the pool water temperature reaches 73 degrees or higher.
The Gifford Aquatic Center is scheduled to reopen on Tuesday, Feb. 3 after its normal Monday closure subject to weather and water temperatures.
Officials said both facilities are equipped with thermal blankets and heater/chiller systems that work effectively during normal weather conditions. Wind and ambient temperatures affect water temperatures and staff’s ability to lifeguard swimmers during activities. These projected weather conditions will challenge the operational safety of the facilities.
All other parks and recreation facilities will remain open during their regularly scheduled hours.
The Indian River County Shooting Range Clays Course will be closed for a private event on Saturday.
All Indian River County beach parks will remain open and guarded normally.
Safety Measures
South Florida Fair is implementing enhanced safety protocols, with rides being constantly monitored during high wind warnings. Elevated attractions like the Sky Ride and Thunderbird Swing Ride will be the first to shut down when conditions deteriorate. Fair officials said individual calls on each ride are made depending on wind speed, direction and cross winds. Other fair events that could face disruptions include high wire acts and outdoor stage performances. Fair officials said the sheriff's office maintains communication with fair organizers about threatening weather conditions. Fair crews are working around the clock to secure all tents, umbrellas and other items that could be affected by strong winds as part of the fair's comprehensive emergency plan.
Additional closures will be added here as they are announced.
