NICEVILLE — A strong cold front is expected to sweep across Northwest Florida during the weekend, bringing the potential for strong storms, frigid temperatures and winter precipitation early next week.
In a memo from Okaloosa County Public Safety Director Patrick Maddox, officials have expressed concern about the potential for winter precipitation Tuesday into Wednesday. The National Weather Service defines winter precipitation as snow, sleet or freezing rain.
“There are many unknowns and overall low confidence given this is still almost a week out,” Maddox wrote.
Here is what you need to know.
Storm potential
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What: A few strong storms with gusty winds.
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When: Early Saturday morning.
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Where: Areas southeast of I-65 and the western Florida Panhandle.
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Confidence: Low. While wind shear is expected to be strong, there is uncertainty about the level of instability needed to support severe storms. If instability increases, an isolated severe storm cannot be ruled out.
Bitter cold ahead
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What: An arctic air mass will settle over the region, with lows dropping well into the 20s Monday through Wednesday mornings. Inland areas could see lows in the teens, and wind chills may dip into the single digits.
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When: Sunday through Wednesday.
So you’re saying there’s a chance?
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What: A wintry mix could impact the area, but details remain uncertain. Two scenarios are possible:
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A surface low develops over the central Gulf, spreading precipitation into the area, potentially resulting in widespread winter weather.
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A low does not form or forms too far south, leaving the region dry but still under bitterly cold conditions.
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When: Tuesday into Wednesday.
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Confidence: Low. According to Maddox, further guidance is needed to determine the likelihood and extent of the threat.
This article originally appeared on Northwest Florida Daily News: Okaloosa County will see very cold temperatures, maybe precipitation
