The Big Freeze: Jackets On, History in the Making

Miami’s Sunday Morning Briefing

Miami is waking up to a rare and biting chill this Sunday, February 1, 2026. As a significant cold front sweeps across South Florida, the usual tropical breeze has been replaced by a record-breaking frost that has the entire county reaching for their heaviest coats. Despite the shivers, the city is buzzing with the start of a historic month of remembrance and high-stakes sports.

The Mood: Shivering but Soulful

The mood in the city today is one of resilient adaptation. While Miamians are more accustomed to humidity than wind chill, there is an unmistakable energy in the air as February begins. The streets are quieter than usual this morning as residents hunker down, but the atmosphere remains culturally vibrant. There is a sense of community as neighbors check on one another’s plants and pets, preparing for a day where the sunshine won’t quite manage to take the edge off the cold.

Talking Point: The Big Chill of 2026

The primary conversation at every cafecito window today is the record-breaking temperature. Forecasters are tracking a cold snap that has plunged temperatures into the 30s and 40s, potentially shattering the previous February record of 50 degrees set back in 1980. This isn't just a weather anomaly; it's a logistical challenge. Miami-Dade County has activated emergency cold-weather shelters for the fourth time this year, and the agricultural industry is on high alert for frost damage to local crops. Additionally, keep an eye out for the new Waymo driverless robotaxis navigating the slicker-than-usual morning roads, as the service has officially expanded its footprint across the city this season.

Today’s Agenda: A Century of History

• Black History Month Centenary: Today marks the official start of Black History Month. This year is particularly momentous as it marks 100 years of national commemorations. The theme, “A Century of Black History Commemorations,” kicks off with the 14th Annual Trayvon Martin Remembrance Gala tonight at 7:00 PM.
• Kaseya Center Showdown: The Miami Heat take on the Chicago Bulls at 6:00 PM. Expect a packed house as fans look to escape the outdoor chill for the heated intensity of the hardwood.
• Bluegrass and Bass: For those brave enough to face the outdoors, the Bluegrass Music Festival at Greynolds Park begins at 12:30 PM, offering some high-energy pickin' to keep the blood moving.

Feel-Good Story: Pete the Sloth’s Heated Retreat

While most of us are complaining about the wind, the residents of Zoo Miami are getting the five-star spa treatment. Pete the sloth has become the local star of the weekend after being spotted peering out from his specially heated enclosure. Zoo officials have moved several vulnerable species, including the Galápagos tortoises and African painted dogs, into temperature-controlled habitats. Seeing the community and zoo staff rally to ensure every resident—two-legged or four—stays warm during this historic freeze is a heartwarming reminder of the city's spirit.