Pensacola Braces for Historic Winter Storm, Closures Announced

PENSACOLA, Fla. — The City of Pensacola is preparing for what officials are calling a “winter storm of the century,” with widespread closures and safety measures announced ahead of the severe weather expected to hit Tuesday morning. City offices and facilities will operate at reduced capacity on Tuesday and Wednesday, while residents are urged to stay off the roads.

Pensacola Mayor D.C. Reeves emphasized the importance of safety during the storm. “For your safety and the safety of our city employees and first responders, please stay off the roads during and immediately following this extreme weather,” Reeves said. “Our team is working around the clock and will continue to do so to bring our roadways back to safe conditions. I ask that you please respect those efforts and the safety of your friends, family, and neighbors.”

The city has implemented a series of closures, with exceptions for essential services. Public Works crews are prepared to deploy sand and salt to de-ice priority roadways and bridges, including the 12th Avenue Bridge and Summit Boulevard, which serve as main corridors for emergency services. Coordination with the Florida Department of Transportation ensures anti-icing pre-treatment for all FDOT bridges and overpasses before the storm hits.

Pensacola Police have increased staffing to ensure an effective law enforcement response to emergencies. The department has also deployed its Community Response Specialist team to canvass areas of the city in search of unsheltered individuals seeking refuge from the severe winter weather. Cold-weather supplies are available for those who decline emergency shelter offers.

Sanitation Services will adjust collection schedules, with Monday’s routes collected on Thursday and Tuesday’s routes on Friday. Residents can contact Sanitation Services at 850-435-1890 for assistance.

Over 70 restaurants in the Pensacola area have announced closures for Tuesday, prioritizing the safety of staff and patrons. Among the closures are popular establishments like Flora-Bama, The Global Grill, and Jackson’s Steakhouse. A full list of closures is available to help residents prepare.

As the city braces for the storm, officials are asking for patience during the cleanup process. “The City of Pensacola is ready to respond to this storm. However, much like following a tropical storm or hurricane, there will be delays in restoring services and clearing roadways,” the city said in a statement. “We ask for your patience as cleanup begins following the end of this winter storm.”