Citizens encouraged to take protective steps ahead of severe storms tonight

The National Weather Service (NWS) is forecasting severe storms in the Pensacola area beginning this evening through Friday morning.

Citizens are encouraged to take protective steps ahead of the weather event including:

Complete all outside activities before dark this evening.
Ensure any light weight outdoor equipment or furnishings are secured before dark this evening.
Test that personal weather alert systems are operational.
Monitor local weather sources this evening.
Know where you will shelter if high winds or tornadic conditions develop near you.

The potential threats are damaging winds with speeds up to 70 miles per hour, tornadoes and localized flash flooding particularly of low lying and urban areas. A strong tornado cannot be ruled out. Between one to three inches of rain can be expected. High surf and dangerous rip currents will impact the beaches late Thursday through Friday night.

Please have an emergency plan in place and have multiple ways to receive warning information.

City officials are monitoring the weather and will aim to take necessary precautions. We would like to take this opportunity to remind residents to be mindful of impending weather forecasts and access to health and safety services. If you see a storm drain that appears to be obstructed, please remove the obstruction.

City Notifications - http://cityofpensacola.com/List.aspx

Escambia County Emergency Management - https://www.facebook.com/bereadyec/

National Weather Service - http://www.weather.gov/

Weather Radar - http://weartv.com/weather/radar

Pensacola 311 - Citizens have three easy ways to contact 311 -- simply dialing 311, visiting this website, or by downloading our Pensacola 311 mobile app, available for iPhone/iPad, Android, and Blackberry.

Non-Emergencies Only - Pensacola 311 is designed to handle non-emergency issues only. If you require emergency assistance, please utilize one of the following numbers:

Fire/Police/Emergency Medical Services: 911

Pensacola Energy: 850-474-5300

Sanitation Department: 850-435-1890