10 Surprising — and Unsettling — Truths About Life in Florida
When most people think of Florida, the images that come to mind usually include swaying palm trees, white sandy beaches, and endless sunshine. And while those visions are certainly part of the picture, they don’t tell the whole story. Beyond the paradise-like Instagram photos, there’s another side to the Sunshine State that most tourists — and even some residents — would rather not talk about.
Here are 10 lesser-known, less-glamorous facts about Florida that might change how you see the state:
1. Yes, It Actually Freezes Here
If you’re heading to Florida to escape the cold, don’t pack away your winter coat just yet. While rare in southern parts of the state, temperatures in northern and central Florida can dip below freezing — and yes, it even snows occasionally. In fact, earlier this year (2025), Florida experienced its heaviest snowfall on record near Pensacola, with accumulations reaching up to a foot.
2. Sharks Are Always Lurking — Even Close to Shore
Florida’s coastal waters are home to a wide variety of shark species, including great whites that occasionally come uncomfortably close to beaches. While shark attacks are statistically rare, the ocean is never truly without them.
3. Beach Closures Due to Contaminated Water Happen More Often Than You’d Think
Whether it’s caused by sewage overflows, flooding, or busted infrastructure, Florida beaches are sometimes forced to shut down due to unsafe water quality. Contamination levels can get high enough that public health officials temporarily close access to swimming.
???? Bonus: Florida’s well water often smells like sulfur — a naturally occurring (but extremely unpleasant) byproduct of the aquifers below.
4. Florida Has the Most Lightning Strikes in the Nation
Known as “Lightning Alley,” the corridor between Tampa and Titusville experiences more lightning activity than anywhere else in the United States. Central Florida residents are no strangers to sudden afternoon storms and the hair-raising threat of strikes.
5. Sea Levels Are Rising — and Fast
Flooding has become increasingly common in coastal areas of Florida due to rising sea levels. According to climate projections, parts of the state could be permanently underwater by 2100. Miami, in particular, is at high risk, with flooding already affecting neighborhoods regularly. Data provided by the National Sea Level Explorer, a government website, reveals that Florida’s sea levels have increased by 7 inches from the 1970s to the present day. If the trend of rising sea levels continue, some projections estimate another 9 inches of rise from 2020 to 2050.
6. Human Ashes Have Been Illegally Scattered at Disney World
While it may sound like an urban legend, Disney World has had to stop multiple guests from scattering human ashes throughout the park — especially at the Haunted Mansion, which is reportedly a favorite spot for this unsettling activity.
7. Sinkholes Are a Daily Reality
Florida’s geology makes it highly prone to sinkholes. They can appear with little warning and cause serious property damage. In fact, they’re so common that some homebuyers actually prefer properties with repaired sinkholes, seeing them as less likely to collapse again.
8. Dangerous Wildlife Is Everywhere
From venomous snakes and poisonous fish to brain-eating amoebas and biting insects, Florida is home to a wide range of dangerous creatures. While mosquitoes often steal the spotlight, they’re far from the only threat lurking in the wild.
9. Roaches Are a Part of Life — Like It or Not
In Florida, roaches aren’t necessarily a sign of uncleanliness — they’re a fact of life. Even the cleanest homes can attract these water-loving pests, especially during rainy seasons. Routine pest control helps, but total elimination is virtually impossible.
10. Florida Is a Major Hub for Human Trafficking
Due to its vast tourism industry and abundance of coastal ports, Florida has become one of the top states for human trafficking cases. While law enforcement continues to battle this issue, awareness and vigilance remain key to prevention.
Which of these Florida facts surprised you most? Share your thoughts and join the discussion on our social media channels.
