Will it snow in Florida? Panhandle braces for rare winter storm
Frigid temperatures engulf the South
Frigid temperatures engulfed the South on Monday ahead of a winter storm that’s expected to spread heavy snow and disruptive ice around a region that rarely sees such weather, prompting winter storm warnings that extend from Texas to the Florida Panhandle.
State of Emergency Declared
Gov. Ron DeSantis on Monday declared a state of emergency as the Panhandle and other parts of North Florida get hit with frigid weather and face the possibility of snow and ice. DeSantis said that state emergency management and transportation officials are on standby as the Panhandle is expected to face the possibility of snow and ice.
Stay Safe, Stay Informed
“Please stay attentive to weather conditions and safety alerts from local and state officials. Also, please be careful in icy conditions, especially on the roadways,” DeSantis wrote on X. The order said “all modes of hazardous winter weather will be likely, including snow, sleet, and freezing rain.”
Forecast and Impacts
A widespread winter event – with freezing rain, sleet, snow, and rain all possible – is expected to move into the region Tuesday afternoon into Wednesday morning, according to forecasters from the National Weather Service in Tallahassee. The order said ice accumulation from freezing rain is the most impactful winter hazard, and significant impacts to roadways, bridges, trees, and powerlines are possible.
Winter Storm Warnings
Around 40 million people, primarily across the southern U.S., were under some type of weather hazard, including more than 21 million under a winter storm warning.
Conclusion
As the Panhandle and other parts of North Florida prepare for the possibility of snow and ice, it’s crucial to stay informed and take necessary precautions to ensure safety. Remember to stay away from icy conditions, especially on roadways, and follow updates from local and state officials.
FAQs
* What is the forecast for the Panhandle and North Florida?
The Panhandle and North Florida are expected to face the possibility of snow and ice, with 1 to 3 inches of snow forecast for the Panhandle and icy conditions developing east to the Suwannee River Valley.
* What is the best way to stay safe during the winter storm?
Stay attentive to weather conditions and safety alerts from local and state officials. Be careful in icy conditions, especially on roadways.
* Can I travel during the winter storm?
Travel is not recommended after the onset of snow and ice accumulations, but it’s essential to check road conditions and follow updates from local and state officials before venturing out.
