Severe Weather Impacts Expected; Prepare Now

January 08, 2024

The City of Tallahassee is closely monitoring the developing weather conditions. According to the National Weather Service, significant severe weather impacts, such as destructive high winds, possible hail and localized flooding, are anticipated across the Big Bend region, with local impacts beginning late tonight, Jan. 8, and continuing through midday Tuesday, Jan. 9. As part of this forecast, an intense and powerful squall line is expected to reach Tallahassee around 11 a.m., producing wind gusts up to 80 mph and potential tornadic activity.

City offices will be closed to the public on Tuesday, Jan. 9. City staff is prepared and will respond to any impacts to City services, such as power outages. Additional crews will be on call overnight. Commercial and residential solid waste collection services will be suspended tomorrow, Jan. 9. All commercial and residential customers will now receive service one day later than their regularly scheduled service.

On Tuesday, Jan. 9, StarMetro will provide modified fixed route and Dial-A-Ride services. All fixed route and Dial-A-Ride services will cease operation at 9:30 a.m. until wind and road conditions allow service to resume. Last outbound trips from C.K. Steele Plaza will be at 8 a.m./8:30 a.m. (depending on the route). Last inbound trips to C.K. Steele Plaza will be 9 a.m./9:30 a.m. (depending on the route). Modified service hours are subject to change per weather conditions. StarMetro is unable to operate in sustained winds over 35 mph. Night Nole will cease operations at 11 p.m Monday, Jan. 8, and Seminole Express/Night Nole will not operate on Tuesday, Jan. 9.

With high winds forecasted, there may be a time when help is unable to reach you and restoration efforts cannot occur. Assessment of damage and restoration efforts will resume when winds subside and it is safe for crews to be on the roads. City crews stand ready to respond as swiftly as safely possible.

Residents are encouraged to prepare, including bringing loose items and outdoor furniture inside or securing them down. Citizens should download the free DigiTally app now. Through the app, residents can easily report issues such as downed trees and power outages. Outages can also be reported via Talgov.com/Outage. A map showing general areas with reported outages is available on both the website and app. City utility customers can also call 850-891-4968 to report power outages; call wait times will be longer during major events.

To stay informed about City services as this weather system develops, follow @CityofTLH on X and Facebook and check Talgov.com.

Residents are encouraged to remain weather aware and monitor local conditions.