Ah, but forecasters again are predicting a cold front will make it to Central Florida later today. Should we get our hopes up?
In a brief interview, meteorologist Russ Henes of the National Weather Service in Ruskin offered hope:
Q. Two weeks ago, you guys claimed a cold front was coming through Central Florida. So people started selling sensibly priced firewood (six "logs" for $12). We chiseled our windows open. And it may have actually gotten warmer. Are you sure this time?
A. "Hey, we wouldn't lie. You're right. The first one didn't quite pan out. But right now, it looks like this one is the real deal."
Q. Could you ... um ... be more specific?
A. "(Tonight) is when we should start to feel it. It'll drop to the low 50s by Friday morning and only reach the low 70s by Friday afternoon. The lows will be in the 50s again for Saturday morning and mid 70s for Saturday afternoon.
Q. You know I'm writing all this down?
A. "That's okay. It's going to happen."
Q. So did you guys take a lot of heat (snicker) for missing the last front?
A. "No, not really. Who listens?"
Q. So, if you're wrong about this front, can I call you at home and insult you?
A. "No. But, look, I'll be just as disappointed as you. I've been waiting since October for some cool weather. I've had enough of summer, too."
Q. Last question. Do cows really lie down before a rainstorm?
A. "Beats the heck out of me. I was raised in Miami. I didn't see a cow until I was 29."
