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Florida's Climate and Weather

By , About.com Guide

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Sunshine State
Florida Sunset Compliments of Lee Island Coast CVB
You can almost always tip your hat to the end of another perfect day in Florida. The climate has always been Florida's most important natural resources, which is reflected in its official nickname, the "Sunshine State."

Summers throughout the state are long, warm, and fairly humid. Winters are mild with periodic invasions of cool to occasionally cold air. Coastal areas in all sections of Florida average slightly warmer temperatures in winter and cooler ones in summer.

The primary factors affecting the state's climate are latitude and numerous inland lakes. Proximity to the currents of the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico also plays an important role.

Next Page: Average Annual Temperatures

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