Mon Feb 24 11:10:00 UTC 2025: ## Cold Snap and Rip Currents Hit Sarasota-Bradenton Area
**Sarasota, FL –** Sarasota and Manatee counties are bracing for a brief cold snap and dangerous rip currents this week. A small craft advisory is in effect through Friday afternoon, with a high risk of rip currents lasting until Friday morning. Strong winds driven by high pressure over the Dakotas will bring chilly temperatures Thursday night into Friday.
Manatee County residents can expect lows of 40 degrees Fahrenheit, with wind chills dipping to 34 degrees. Sarasota County will see lows of 41 degrees and wind chills of 35 degrees. A cold weather shelter will open in North Port at 100 Church, 14525 Tamiami Trail, from 5 p.m. Thursday to 7 a.m. Friday, offering a meal and temporary refuge. Attendees should bring their own sleeping gear.
The National Weather Service forecast calls for mostly sunny conditions Friday with highs near 70 degrees but lingering chilly wind chills. The weekend will see a gradual warming trend, with highs in the low 70s and a chance of showers on Sunday and Monday. Temperatures will remain mild into next week. Residents are urged to exercise caution near the water due to the high rip current risk.
First Piper 