Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has declared a state of emergency as an unprecedented winter storm moves across North Florida, bringing with it snow, sleet, and freezing rain. This unusual weather event is expected to have significant impacts across the region, with forecasts predicting snowfall totals of 2 to 4 inches, with localized accumulations potentially reaching up to 6 inches.
“We used to think Blizzard Beach was just a theme park in Orlando, but now we may actually see snow on our beaches throughout Northwest Florida and even into Tallahassee and beyond,” Governor DeSantis remarked during a press briefing.
Florida Division of Emergency Management Director Kevin Guthrie and his team have been working diligently to prepare for the storm’s impact. Over 250 Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) personnel, along with nearly 200 pieces of heavy equipment, including 11 snow plows and 120 trucks equipped with spray rigs to distribute de-icing chemicals, are on standby to ensure road safety.
READ: Florida Gov. DeSantis Declares State Of Emergency: State Braces For Rare Winter Storm
“Our infrastructure is designed differently than states accustomed to snow, and driving in these conditions can be very hazardous,” DeSantis warned. “If you don’t need to be on the roads, stay home.”
State officials have issued winter storm warnings across the western Florida Panhandle and extended advisories eastward along the I-10 corridor into Duval County. Wind chill values are expected to plummet as low as five degrees, with freezing temperatures posing a significant threat to infrastructure and transportation.
All non-essential state workers in affected areas have been dismissed early, and state offices in impacted regions will remain closed on Wednesday, January 22nd. School districts across the Panhandle and Big Bend region have announced closures, and cold weather shelters are opening in various counties.
“Please listen to your local officials and emergency announcements,” urged DeSantis. “Our emergency teams have pre-treated over 600 state-owned bridges and are continuously monitoring road conditions.”
Residents are advised to follow the “Five P’s of Cold Weather Safety”:
- People: Dress in layers and stay indoors if possible.
- Pets: Ensure they have proper shelter and warmth.
- Pipes: Insulate and allow faucets to drip to prevent freezing.
- Plants: Cover or bring plants indoors.
- Practice Fire Safety: Use space heaters safely and avoid using fuel-burning devices indoors.
READ: Historic Winter Storm Threatens Travel Chaos, Power Outages From Florida To Texas
While widespread power outages are not anticipated on a hurricane scale, localized outages may occur due to ice accumulation on power lines. Florida’s utilities are prepared to respond to any service disruptions.
The Florida Department of Transportation is actively monitoring and treating priority routes along I-10 and I-75. Officials urge drivers to avoid travel if possible and to exercise extreme caution if driving is necessary.
“Florida drivers aren’t used to these conditions, and it can be very different from what we’re accustomed to,” said DeSantis. “Take it slow and stay safe.”
The Governor and state emergency management teams continue to monitor the evolving situation and provide updates via the Florida Division of Emergency Management’s official website, floridadisaster.org, and their social media channels. Residents are encouraged to stay informed and take necessary precautions to weather this historic winter storm safely.
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