Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has activated an emergency response plan as a winter storm approaches the state, bringing cold conditions and hazardous driving conditions to North Florida.
Winter Weather System Brings Cold Conditions to Florida
Gov. Ron DeSantis issued a state of emergency as a winter weather system approaches the state from the Gulf of Mexico. The storm is forecast to bring dangerously cold conditions to North Florida on Tuesday.
According to the governor’s office, winter storm warnings have been issued across the western part of the Florida Panhandle due to snowfall totals of one to three inches in the region. Local totals may reach even three to four inches of snow for areas that have gotten heavy snow in the past.
Driving Conditions to be Hazardous
The governor’s order also warns that driving conditions will be hazardous Tuesday afternoon into Wednesday across North Florida. This is due to the expected cold temperatures and potential winter weather.
A state of emergency has been declared by Gov. DeSantis, citing the projected major disaster as a reason for the declaration. The state of emergency will remain in place for 60 days after his order.
Tampa Bay Residents to Experience Cold Temperatures
For Tampa Bay residents, temperatures are expected to stay cold all week, with highs in the 50s and lows in the 40s until this upcoming weekend. While rain chances will increase, no snow is expected in the area.
However, North Florida will likely see a mix of snow and freezing rain Tuesday night and Wednesday morning. Temperatures will not get cold enough in Tampa for any winter weather to occur.
