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tornadoes than in snow and ice. Based on all the historical evidence, it is anticipated that a moderate freeze may be expected in Florida every one to two years. Severe freezes, where the greatest numbers of winter crops are lost, may be expected on average once every five years based on historic FEMA -declared disasters. Extent. The minimum temperature recorded in the Vero Beach area was 25 degrees (19 degree wind chill) on 12/14/10. This could be considered the minimum likely temperature to be experienced in the Vero Beach area. Probability. Severe winter weather includes extreme cold, snowfall, ice storms, and/or strong winds, and can affect every state in the United States in some fashion. Areas where this weather is uncommon, such as Florida, are typically more affected by winter weather than regions that experience this more frequently. Agriculture is the state's primary vulnerability to this hazard since freezing temperatures can kill or damage winter crops. Significant economic impacts in Florida led the NCDC to maintain freeze and frost data throughout the state. The probability of winter storms and freezes for Indian River County is low considering the entire state of Florida maintains a five percent probability or higher of a freeze or frost annually, all of which are located in the upper half of Florida. g. Extreme Temperatures (Heat) - Hazard Identification Temperatures that remain 10° or more above the average high temperature for a region and last for several weeks are defined as extreme heat (FEMA, 1993). Humid conditions, which add to the discomfort of high temperatures, occur when an area of high atmospheric pressure traps hazy, damp air near the ground. Human bodies dissipate heat in one of three ways: by varying the rate and depth of blood circulation; by losing water through the skin and sweat glands; and by panting. As the blood is heated to above 98.6°, the heart begins to pump more blood, blood vessels dilate to accommodate the increased flow, and the bundles of tiny capillaries penetrating through the upper layers of skin are put into operation. The body's blood is circulated closer to the surface, and excess heat is released into the cooler atmosphere. At the same time, water diffuses through the skin as perspiration. The skin handles about 90% Indian River County Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan Basic Page 42