Winter Storm Blankets Florida Gulf Coast
A freak winter storm has blanketed Florida's Gulf Coast, bringing snow, sleet, and freezing rain. While Tallahassee has yet to see significant snowfall, Pensacola has likely broken the state's 130-year-old record for total snowfall.
Snow Blankets Pensacola
Pensacola has likely broken the state's 130-year-old record for total snowfall. The National Weather Service doesn't have an official measurement of the snowfall amounts in Pensacola yet, but weather service meteorologist David Eversole said they've gotten unofficial reports of as much as 5.5 inches from Escambia County.
The all-time official record of snowfall in the Pensacola area is 3 inches set in 1895. The all-time Florida record is 4” from Milton on March 6, 1954.
“It's highly likely the all-time record has been broken,” Eversole said.
As snow continues to fall in Escambia County, all roads and bridges are quickly becoming impassable. Residents are strongly urged to remain off the roadways until further notice as snow accumulates.
The weather service said snow could continue to fall this afternoon at as much as 1-inch per hour rate south of Interstate 10.
Snowfall in Tallahassee
While Tallahassee has yet to see significant snowfall, it is expected to arrive later today. The National Weather Service in Tallahassee is forecasting 2-3 inches of snow or sleet through the afternoon Tuesday and into Wednesday morning.
Forecasters warn that some places could get 6+ inches of snow and more ice than expected. There is a low to medium chance that a band of heavier precipitation could set up over the area, leading to more accumulation than expected.
Freezing rain is also a concern, with the potential to cause hazardous road conditions and power outages. Residents are urged to stay off the roads and be prepared for possible power outages.
State of Emergency Declared
Governor Ron DeSantis has declared a state of emergency that allows for the mobilization of the National Guard and State Guard. The state of emergency will help ensure that resources are available to respond to the storm and its aftermath.
Tallahassee Airport Closures
Tallahassee International Airport announced that due to the winter storm, commercial airlines have canceled all flights after 3 p.m. today. The airport will temporarily suspend operations starting at 4 p.m., with plans to reopen at noon Wednesday.
Travelers are advised to check flight status with their airline.
School and Government Closures
The approaching winter storm has prompted a growing number of schools, universities, and government offices to close early. A full list of the latest closures can be found here.
Residents are urged to stay off the roads, avoid unnecessary travel, and be prepared for the winter storm.