My Frozen Valentine: How Florida’s Big Freeze Reshaped Valentine’s Day

via Evita Jackeline on Instagram

With Valentine’s Day here, many people are preparing to buy flowers for someone special. But this year, the cost of those bouquets may reflect more than just demand.

Florida’s early February freeze damaged a key part of the floral industry — and its effects are still unfolding.

Florida Storms digital meteorologist Leslie Hudson explains how a few cold nights are now rippling through one of the most important growing seasons of the year.

State leaders say help may be on the way. Florida Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson is seeking federal approval to provide disaster relief funds to farmers impacted by the freeze — assistance that could help growers recover from crop losses and prepare for the seasons ahead.

Leslie Hudson is an experienced Multimedia Journalist and Digital Meteorologist whose career is marked by significant professional milestones. A trailblazer in the industry, she holds the distinction of being the first female AMS meteorologist in the Orlando market. Her extensive background in public safety and emergency management led to her being appointed by Florida’s Governor to the State of Florida’s Hurricane Catastrophic Fund Council from 2002 to 2007. Notably, she was the sole meteorologist in the state selected for this prestigious council.