The Panhandle of Florida is experiencing a historic snowstorm, with snowfall totals reaching unprecedented levels. Pensacola has officially broken the state's 130-year-old snowfall record, with reports of up to 5 inches of snow at the airport and scattered reports of 6.5 to 7.5 inches in nearby areas. This surpasses the previous record of 3 inches set in 1895. The storm has brought blizzard conditions to parts of the Gulf Coast, with snow accumulation ranging from 3 to 6 inches across the region [1] [2].

In response to the severe weather conditions, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has declared a state of emergency. The Arctic blast is expected to move across the state, bringing freezing rain and potential power outages along with the heavy snowfall. The freezing rain is forecasted to create a glaze on top of the snow, leading to even more dangerous conditions. Residents are strongly encouraged to stay off the roadways, especially the Interstate 10 corridor, as the storm continues to impact the region [3].

The historic snowstorm has created significant challenges for residents in the affected areas. Officials are urging people to stay indoors and avoid travel due to the dangerous conditions caused by the snow and freezing rain. Power outages are a major concern, as the freezing rain can accumulate nearly a quarter of an inch, leading to downed power lines. As temperatures warm towards the weekend, the accumulated snow and ice are expected to melt, but until then, residents should remain cautious and prepared for potential black ice and refreezing issues [4].