A dramatic temperature swing is forecast for the Florida Keys, with conditions expected to plummet to around 50 degrees Fahrenheit, triggering a cold-stun response in local sea turtle populations. Eight turtles have been transported to the Turtle Hospital in Marathon for rehabilitation, according to reports from WSVN.
The sudden shift from recent warmer temperatures to near-freezing conditions poses a significant threat to sea turtles, which are ectothermic, meaning their body temperature is regulated by the surrounding environment. When water temperatures drop rapidly, turtles develop into lethargic and can experience hypothermia, a condition known as “cold stunning.” This leaves them vulnerable to predators and illness.
The Turtle Hospital in Marathon is currently treating the rescued turtles, providing warmth and supportive care to help them recover. According to Keys Weekly Newspapers, the facility is equipped to handle an influx of cold-stunned turtles during these unusual weather events. Similar rescues have occurred in recent years as climate fluctuations become more frequent.
NBC 6 South Florida reported that the rescued turtles are receiving treatment for hypothermia. The cold-stunned turtles are being closely monitored by veterinary staff, and their progress is being tracked as they slowly regain their ability to regulate their body temperature. The hospital staff are working to stabilize the turtles and prepare them for eventual release back into the wild.
The temperature drop is also impacting residents across the broader Tampa Bay area, with a 50-degree swing anticipated, as reported by AOL.com. While the Keys are experiencing the most immediate impact on wildlife, the broader cold snap is raising concerns about potential impacts on agriculture and other temperature-sensitive ecosystems throughout Florida. The Florida Keys News also noted the potential for allergy impacts due to the rapid weather change.
