Photo credit: www.yahoo.com
Pensacola is bracing for significant snowfall on Tuesday, as forecasts from the National Weather Service predict accumulations of 2 to 4 inches due to an impending winter storm.
A winter storm warning has been issued for the Pensacola area, specifically affecting Escambia and Santa Rosa counties, and will be in effect from 6 a.m. Tuesday until 6 a.m. Wednesday.
Recent model updates have bolstered expectations that snowfall will be the predominant form of winter precipitation in Pensacola on Tuesday. The weather service cautioned that coastal areas might experience a mix of snow, sleet, and freezing rain, though current projections lean towards mostly snow.
If the forecast holds true, this could be a rare winter event for the region. Historical data indicates that Pensacola’s highest one-day snowfall occurred in 1954, when 2.3 inches was recorded at the local airport.
Travel is expected to be perilous, with icy roads, bridges, and overpasses making conditions hazardous at times. The weather service has also warned of potential power outages and tree damage.
Wintry weather is anticipated to reach Florida by midday Tuesday, accompanied by sharply lower temperatures. Many areas could remain below freezing throughout the day, and wind chills in Pensacola could drop to as low as 12 degrees early Wednesday, raising concerns about the risk of hypothermia.
In light of the impending winter weather, public schools and most government offices will be closed on Tuesday.
Driving Precautions During Snow and Ice
Local officials are urging residents to avoid travel unless absolutely necessary, as many drivers are not accustomed to navigating icy roads. Escambia County Public Safety Director Eric Gilmore pointed out that many residents lack experience with snow and icy conditions, which differ significantly from driving norms in colder regions of the country.
Staying Warm Safely at Home
As temperatures drop, maintaining a warm home becomes essential. County officials caution against the overuse of electrical appliances during colder weather, particularly when using power strips, which can pose a fire risk. They specifically noted that improper use of space heaters may lead to dangerous situations.
Emergency Shelters Available
Escambia County Emergency Manager, Travis Tompkins, announced that local agencies are collaborating to inform individuals experiencing homelessness about available shelter options during the cold snap. Escambia County Area Transit will provide free transportation between different shelters as needed. The following facilities are opened under the county’s cold weather sheltering initiative:
348 W. Herman St., Pensacola
Accepts both men and women. Open around the clock, offering expanded capacity with no fees during cold weather events.
2200 N. Palafox St., Pensacola
Service for women with children, open daily with increased capacity during cold weather. Intake available from 4-6 p.m., with possible extensions if escorted by law enforcement.
7895 Pensacola Blvd., Pensacola
For men and women, children not permitted. Intake from 4:30-6:30 p.m., with clients required to depart by 7 a.m., although ECAT offers free transport to the Waterfront starting at 7 a.m.
These shelters will remain operational through Wednesday night, January 22, or longer if the low temperatures persist.
Tompkins emphasized that while some shelters may have specific closing times, the Waterfront facility will remain open continuously as a warming center, supported by ECAT transportation.
For details on shelters and other emergency resources in Escambia County, visit MyEscambia.com/realchange or call 211.
Extended Hours for Santa Rosa County Shelters
The cold weather shelter at Ferris Hill Baptist Church, located at 6848 Chaffin St. in Milton, will operate 24 hours until 10 a.m. on Thursday.
Admissions will be cut off at 8:30 p.m. each night, except for individuals brought in by law enforcement. Only verified service animals are allowed.
Volunteers are still needed through Wednesday, with shifts lasting two hours. For details on available shifts and how to volunteer, please visit https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0F44A5AC2DA1FDC16-54474634-cold#/.
Santa Rosa County’s cold weather shelter operates through Ferris Hill Baptist Church, relying on volunteer efforts and donations. It typically opens whenever temperatures are expected to fall below 40 degrees, serving individuals without homes or those unable to properly heat their residences.
Five Principles for Cold Weather Safety
As temperatures drop, residents are reminded to follow the “Five P’s” of cold weather safety: Protect People, Protect Plants, Protect Pets, Protect Exposed Pipes, and Practice Fire Safety. Keep these safety tips in mind to remain warm and secure during the cold:
Limit time outdoors, stay dry, and wear multiple layers of loose, warm clothing.
Always plug space heaters directly into wall outlets to avoid electrical overload, and always keep them away from flammable materials.
Avoid using stoves or ovens for heating, as they are not safe or efficient for this purpose.
Never use grills for indoor heating, as they produce carbon monoxide, which is hazardous indoors. Make sure any lit candles are never left unattended.
When using a fireplace, ensure proper ventilation, and do not burn any materials other than firewood.
Check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors regularly to ensure they are functional to enhance safety.
News Journal reporter Edward Bunch III contributed to this report.
This article originally appeared on Pensacola News Journal: Pensacola Winter Storm Warning, snow could reach 4 inches
Source
www.yahoo.com