DantheManFL Appreciation Thread.

Rand · Jan 23, 2026

Just getting ready for the polar vortex that's started ~
Being a Floridian, you probably don't know anything about those ~
Basically, don't go out, especially in shorts

do take care

Araucaria · Jan 24, 2026

Good Saturday morning, Dan! It’s going to be cold next week, with lows in the 40s and highs only in the 60s here, so I’m sure it’s going to be even colder where you are. The weather people are making noises like it’s going to be around through at least the first week of February, so bundle up and keep warm!

The Loner · Jan 30, 2026

Araucaria · Jan 31, 2026

Good Saturday morning, Dan! (*8*)

Bundle up, because it's going to be cold!!!!

I believe they've issued a hard freeze warning where you are, and we even have a freeze warning here. Stay indoors and keep that heater blasting. Bring in your potted plants, and keep your pets inside if you have any.

Rand · Feb 2, 2026

Snow in Florida? Are you ok?

Araucaria · Feb 3, 2026

Good Tuesday morning, Dan! (*8*)

I hope you're surviving our freezing temperatures OK. This cold snap has been brutal. We'll have to see if it did much damage to the winter vegetable and citrus crops.

I haven't heard of much snow. My ex lives north of Tampa, and he said he heard reports of flurries in his area, though he didn't see any himself.

DantheManFL · Feb 3, 2026

I survived the polar vortex! I read that plumbers have run out of parts for all the burst water lines, etc. They told everyone to wrap them, I did.

Still getting reports on crop damage. I know the blueberrys froze, strawberries too. Hopefully they'll have some by the Plant City Strawberry Festival - it starts on 2/27. Most Citrus has moved south of us - too many freezes to make a profit.

Impact on Specific Crops

Citrus: Growers in Lake and Orange counties reported tree splitting and heavy ice buildup. While many trees were saved by overnight irrigation, the weight of the ice caused some to topple. The full extent of fruit and blossom damage will take several weeks to determine.
Strawberries & Blueberries: Southern Hill Farms in Clermont reported catastrophic ice coverage. Many red and ripe strawberries are unlikely to survive, and blueberry flowers that died will not produce fruit this season.
Vegetables: Tender vegetables like tomatoes, peppers, squash, and zucchini are facing high losses.
Ferns
: In Volusia County, fern farmers are working around the clock to save their plants during their busiest shipping season before Valentine's Day.

Araucaria · Feb 9, 2026

Good Monday morning, Dan! (*8*)

I hope you’re thawing out after last week’s deep freeze. It sounds like there are heavy losses among the crops and ornamentals in your area. Most plants seemed to come out OK here, but I’ve seen several dead iguanas here.

Rand · Feb 12, 2026

Cold air and frigid waters have caused more than 600 young green sea turtles to wash ashore on Florida’s beaches this month — and more are turning up every day.

Rescuers have saved them from the sand on Treasure Island, Tarpon Springs, Crystal River and Clearwater. The turtles are juveniles, from 2 to 88 pounds, and the hope is to return all of them to the sea.

a-turtle-named-patriot-is-examined-by-UV4YFD4KMRDMPOCD6CDXGDYXMQ.JPG

DantheManFL · Feb 13, 2026

Hey Rand

Yea, that's a problem here. Almost all are returned to the sea after a quick rehab. The Manatees have to swim toward springs when it gets cold. A great place to view them is Blue Springs.

rmcrae · Feb 14, 2026

Happy Valentine's Day Dirty Dan!

Eaglex · Feb 14, 2026

Happy Valentine's Day!

DantheManFL · Feb 15, 2026

Thanks RM and Eaglex! (*8*)

I hope you both are doing great.

Araucaria · Feb 19, 2026

Good Thursday morning, Dan! (*8*)

We’re getting some nice weather right now, and I’m enjoying it. It’s supposed to get cold again next week though, but not nearly as cold as earlier in the month.