News Summary
Jacksonville is facing a Winter Storm Warning with mixed precipitation expected, including snow and ice. Residents in Duval, Clay, and Putnam counties should be vigilant as challenges arise for travel and potential power outages. The weather advisory will impact morning commutes and offer risks of icy roads and freezing temperatures. Preparations are essential as the Florida Department of Transportation gears up to manage road conditions. Stay informed and prepared for the chilly weather ahead.
Winter Weather Advisory in Full Swing for Northeast Florida and Southeast Georgia
Jacksonville is currently under a Winter Storm Warning, and residents are preparing for a mix of nasty weather that could hit the area hard. This warning is in effect from Tuesday at 7 p.m. until Wednesday at 1 p.m. and covers a large part of the First Coast, including all of Southeast Georgia. If you live in Duval County, Clay County, or western Putnam County, you’ll want to pay especially close attention to what’s coming.
Weather Advisory Breakdown
Alongside the Winter Storm Warning, a Winter Weather Advisory is already in place for St. Johns County and eastern Putnam County lasting from 1 a.m. to 10 a.m. on Wednesday. Ware and Pierce counties are also under a warning that begins at 4 p.m. Tuesday and continues until 1 p.m. Wednesday. So, whether you’re planning to hit the road or just cozy up at home, be prepared for some slippery conditions!
What Can You Expect?
According to the forecasts, residents should brace themselves for the possibility of heavy mixed precipitation that could result in snow and sleet accumulations of up to one inch. Ice accumulations could add an extra layer of concern with estimates between two-tenths of an inch to one-quarter of an inch. These conditions are likely to make roads, bridges, and overpasses pretty slick, so plan your travels accordingly if you have to be out and about.
Power Outages a Real Possibility
In addition to the icy roads, there’s a growing risk of power outages. This could be caused by ice accumulating on power lines and branches. With the added cold temperatures and widespread rain, remaining vigilant is crucial as the weather could significantly impact daily routines across the region. If there’s ever a time to think ahead and prepare, it’s now! Make sure to have everything you might need to stay warm in case the power goes out.
Chilly Commute Ahead
Motorists, beware: Wednesday morning’s commute could be especially challenging due to wintry conditions. Temperatures in Jacksonville are expected to dip from the mid-60s to below freezing as early as Monday morning. A Cold Weather Advisory is already in effect from 10 p.m. Sunday to 10 a.m. Monday, and these frigid temps could make it feel as cold as 19 degrees in some areas!
Freeze Watch and Warnings
Additionally, a Freeze Warning is in place for 2 to 10 a.m. Monday, forecasting sub-freezing temperatures that could drop to a chilly 29 degrees. And don’t forget about Monday evening into Tuesday morning, as a Freeze Watch will also keep residents on alert.
Chances of Snow
Believe it or not, there are even chances of snow reaching Jacksonville! However, those chances are reported to be quite low, sitting in the single digits. Snow is pretty rare for Florida due to its warmer temperatures, abundant sunlight, and geographic features that generally work against snow formation. So if you did see a snowflake, it might be a sight worth snapping a photo of!
Preparation is Key
The Florida Department of Transportation is taking the situation seriously and is gearing up with the appropriate equipment to tackle road conditions as the weather continues to develop. So, whether you’re heading to work, running errands, or just trying to figure out how to stay warm, remember to stay safe this winter season!
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Additional Resources
- Action News Jax: Weather Update
- Wikipedia: Weather Warning
- First Coast News: Weather Impact Alert
- Google Search: Winter Weather Advisory
- Jacksonville.com: Snow Forecast
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Winter
- Hoodline: Hazardous Weather Warning
- Google News: Jacksonville Weather
- News4Jax: Cold Weather Advisory
- Google Scholar: Climate Change in Florida
- Action News Jax: Winter Storm Arrives
