As evening approaches on March 16, 2026, residents of Pensacola, Florida, are bracing for a significant drop in temperatures. A freeze warning has been issued, set to take effect at 10 p.m. and lasting until 9 a.m. the following morning. The forecast indicates that temperatures will plummet to a low near 33 degrees tonight.
Earlier in the day, the high temperature reached around 56 degrees, providing a stark contrast to the impending cold. Looking ahead, Tuesday’s forecast predicts a high of 53 degrees and a low around 32 degrees, with temperatures expected to gradually rise to a high of 61 degrees and a low of 39 degrees on Wednesday.
By Thursday, conditions are anticipated to improve further, with a high around 71 degrees and a low of 51 degrees. As the weekend approaches, temperatures are expected to soar to around 80 degrees, marking a significant shift from the current cold snap.
In response to the freezing temperatures, the Waterfront Rescue Mission in Pensacola will open as a cold weather shelter at 3:30 p.m. on March 16. Additionally, the cold weather shelter at Ferris Hill Baptist Church will also be operational on March 16 and 17, providing refuge for individuals who are homeless or unable to maintain heat in their homes.
It is important to note that the shelter will not admit anyone under the influence of drugs or alcohol, ensuring a safe environment for all attendees. This initiative is crucial as the National Weather Service has warned of potential severe storms in the Florida Panhandle on the same day.
The opening of these shelters highlights the community’s commitment to supporting vulnerable populations during extreme weather conditions. The cold weather shelter is operated by Ferris Hill Baptist Church and opens each night when temperatures are forecasted to drop below 40 degrees.
As the situation develops, residents are encouraged to stay informed about the weather and take necessary precautions to protect themselves and their families from the cold. The sequence of events underscores the importance of community resources in times of need.
With the freeze warning in effect and the potential for severe storms, Pensacola residents must remain vigilant and prepared for the changing weather conditions.