Escambia County warns of two cold fronts; Waterfront Rescue Mission to open when temps fall below 40 degrees

A public information message warned Escambia County residents on Wednesday to prepare for two incoming cold fronts that will bring freezing temperatures later this week and into early next week.

The message said the first front will arrive late Wednesday night into Thursday, producing a rapid drop in temperatures. By Thursday night freezing conditions were expected across much of the county, with lows inland falling into the low to mid 20s and near-coast lows in the lower 30s. Temperatures were forecast to briefly rebound late Friday into Saturday before a second reinforcing cold front arrives over the weekend, keeping below-normal temperatures in place through early next week. Additional overnight freezes were described as possible, especially inland by Saturday night.

Officials urged residents to prepare now and follow basic safety steps. The message listed the “5 P’s”: protect people, pets, pipes and plants, and practice fire safety; it also advised checking on neighbors who may be vulnerable. The announcement emphasized preparedness for multiple nights of cold weather and recommended actions to avoid frozen pipes and unsafe indoor heating practices.

The message said Waterfront Rescue Mission will open as a cold-weather shelter any time temperatures fall below 40 degrees; the shelter address was shown on-screen during the announcement. The update added that further information and any additional advisories will be posted to Escambia County Emergency Management’s Facebook page.

The information was delivered as a brief county advisory; the speaker said they will continue to monitor conditions and provide updates as needed.