Rare Winter Storm Set to Impact North Florida and Georgia

News Summary

A rare winter storm is expected to hit North Florida and southern Georgia, bringing ice and possibly snow starting Tuesday night. Residents should brace for hazardous travel and stay alert for changing conditions. Ice accumulation could reach dangerous levels, especially in areas north of Jacksonville, which may see its first snow in 35 years. Travelers are advised to postpone plans as conditions worsen, and community warming centers are being activated for those in need.

Rare Winter Storm Ready to Hit North Florida and Southern Georgia

Get ready, folks! A rare winter storm is rolling into North Florida and southern Georgia, bringing with it some icy conditions and even a bit of snow this week. Starting from Tuesday night and lasting into Wednesday morning, everyone in the affected areas is advised to stay alert and prepare for some wintry weather.

What to Expect

The main concern with this storm is the potential for ice accumulation. This could lead to some hazardous travel conditions, especially for those traveling north and west from Jacksonville. If you’re situated in areas like Lake City, Macclenny, Homerville, Waycross, and Jesup, you might want to think twice before hitting the road.

Freezing rain is set to start Tuesday afternoon in Southeast Georgia and will make its way into Northeast Florida just after midnight. This means you could wake up to some slick roads and other potentially risky conditions.

Snow in the Mix

If that’s not enough, snow could also make an appearance! Some parts of Georgia and the Florida panhandle may see snow accumulation exceeding an inch. For those north of Waycross in Southeast Georgia, there’s a medium chance (about 40-50%) of getting up to 1 inch of snow. Even more notably, in select areas, the possibility of up to 3 inches of snow exists, but that’s a bit more of a long shot at 5-15%.

Winter Storm Warning

A Winter Storm Warning has been issued that will last from late Tuesday until 1 p.m. Wednesday for inland Southeast Georgia and the Florida I-10 corridor. However, it looks like Jacksonville will mostly escape snow, thanks to its temperature pattern, meaning icy conditions are a bigger concern here. Sleet and freezing rain are expected in areas like Duval and Nassau counties.

Planning Ahead

If you have travel plans, it might be wise to adjust them. Roads will likely become treacherous after 9 p.m. Tuesday, so it’s best to stay off the roads during that time until Wednesday morning. For those living along the First Coast, a Winter Storm Watch is in effect from 7 PM Tuesday to 1 PM Wednesday, so keep an ear to the ground!

Safety First

Ice accumulation could reach a dangerous 0.25 inches, leading to challenging conditions on roads, bridges, and overpasses. Residents should be cautious during their Wednesday morning commutes, as icy spots could cause unexpected slips and slides. Just imagine—this storm might bring Jacksonville its first taste of snow or ice in a whopping 35 years!

Be Prepared

With the potential for power outages due to ice on power lines and trees, it’s a good idea to prepare in advance. For anyone who may need help staying warm, the City of Jacksonville is activating its Warming Center Contingency Plan for residents without adequate heating when temperatures drop below 27 degrees. The Legends Center on Soutel Drive is designated as an overnight shelter, and the JTA bus system is offering free rides to any warming center.

Community Support

In these chilly times, the community spirit is essential. The city encourages residents to contribute blanket donations for those in need. Remember that while space heaters and fireplaces can keep you warm, using them safely is crucial to avoid fire hazards.

Final Thoughts

In summary, this winter storm is one to watch. With icy roads, potential power outages, and freezing temperatures, it’s time for everyone to stay informed and prepared. Remember, a little caution goes a long way in keeping you and your loved ones safe this winter. Stay warm and take care!