Residents Encouraged to Monitor Potential Winter Weather
Escambia County residents are encouraged to monitor potential winter weather beginning Saturday evening, Jan. 17 into Sunday morning, Jan. 18.
According to the National Weather Service of Mobile, a cold front is expected to arrive in Escambia County Saturday evening, Jan. 17, bringing rain and cooler temperatures. Additionally, a low-pressure system will develop in the Gulf, bringing a low chance for snow late Saturday evening into early Sunday morning.
While the chance of snowfall is low, residents are urged to take winter storm precautions and remain weather-alert.
“Escambia County Emergency Management is closely monitoring this weather event and working with our area partners to provide the latest information as it becomes available," Emergency Manager Travis Tompkins said. "There is still some uncertainty on how much winter precipitation Escambia County could receive, so we encourage residents to stay weather-prepared and take proper precautions when warming your home.”
For additional weather information, visit the NWS website.
Five P's of Cold Weather Safety
Remember the five P's of cold weather preparedness:
Protect People: Remember to dress in layers and wear a hat and gloves. It is important to try to stay out of the wind and to stay dry. Also, remember to check on young children, elderly family members and neighbors who are the most sensitive to cold weather. If the temperature cannot be maintained at home, make temporary arrangements to stay elsewhere, including with friends and family.
Protect Pets: If cold weather is in the forecast, bring outdoor pets inside or give them a warm shelter.
Protect Plants: Cover cold-sensitive plants to protect them from dangerous temperatures.
Protect Pipes: Cover pipes and allow outdoor faucets to slowly drip to prevent them from freezing and breaking.
Practice Fire Safety: Use safe heating sources indoors. Do not use fuel-burning devices such as grills; they release carbon monoxide, a deadly gas. Also, use space heaters according to their instructions and be attentive to open flames.
For cold weather safety tips, visit the Escambia County website.