Are you prepared for Winter Storm Grayson?

1/3/2018 (Permalink)

Satellite imagery of expected areas to be impacted by damaging ice from rain, snow, and freezing temperatures.

As Floridians are deep within the grasps of winter storm Grayson, it is never too late to think of winter storm safety for your family and your home.  Most people think of sub-tropical climates and sunshine here in the sunshine state, but Florida does have a past of winter cold and precipitation.

Florida Cold Weather Facts:

*The coldest temperature recorded in Florida was –2°F in Tallahassee on February 13, 1899. At the same time, snow up to three Inches deep was reported by several cities in the Panhandle.

*Snow has been reported numerous times throughout the state. On January 19, 1977, snow fell on Miami, Florida and was seen in Homestead, Florida (which is 22 miles south of Miami).

*The deepest snowfall ever measured in Florida (four inches), occurred in Milton on March 6, 1954.

The State of Florida Emergency Management office as well as the National Weather Service urges all Floridians to practice The 5 P's of Cold Weather Safety:

1.)Protect People - 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 and the elderly who are most sensitive to cold weather.

2.)Protect Pets - If cold weather is in the forecast, be sure to bring outdoor pets inside or give them a warm shelter to stay in.

3.)Protect Plants - Cover cold-sensitive plants to protect them from the dangerous temperatures.

4.)Protect Pipes - Cover exposed outdoor pipes and allow outdoor faucets to slowly drip to prevent from freezing and breaking.

5.)Practice Fire Safety - Use safe heating sources indoors. Do not use fuel-burning devices such as grills; they release carbon monoxide, which is a deadly gas. Also, make sure to use space heaters according to their instructions and be attentive to open flames.

Lastly, don't forget to have SERVPRO of Alachua County West's phone number ready in case your preparedness still leaves your home in need of emergency services from broken pipes, water damage, or fire.