Severe weather possible for Tuesday, Jan. 9

Posted on by Polk Newsroom

UPDATE 2 P.M. 1/9/24: Governor Ron DeSantis has issued a state of emergency for 49 counties, including Polk County, due to severe weather expected throughout the state today. The state of emergency will allow Florida to receive federal assistance in the event of major damage.

The 10:30 a.m. report from Polk County Emergency Management maintains that Polk County has been designated by the National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center as having a “slight risk” for isolated to scattered severe storms throughout Tuesday afternoon and evening. There is a risk of damaging winds, tornadoes, and waterspouts. No flooding is expected.

Polk State College is continuing to monitor reports from Polk County Emergency Management and the National Weather Service and will provide updates if local weather conditions change.

At this time, there are no changes in College operations; classes will be held as planned this evening. Individuals are encouraged to use caution while driving to and from campus and to use their best judgment regarding their safety.

ORIGINAL POST 1/8/24: Polk State College students, staff, and faculty are urged to use extra caution traveling as they approach or arrive on campuses on Tuesday afternoon and evening.

Portions of Central Florida, including Polk County, have been given a “slight risk” designation for Jan. 9 by the National Weather Service’s Storm Prediction Center. It is possible for the designation to worsen to “enhanced risk” throughout the day.

Polk County is expected to receive maximum sustained winds of 25 to 35 mph with gusts reaching as high as 60 mph. There is a risk of damaging winds, tornadoes, and waterspouts. No flooding is expected.

No closures are scheduled for Polk State at this time. Individuals are encouraged to use caution when driving to and from campus.

Polk State College Lakeland Gateway to College Collegiate High School’s information session scheduled for Tuesday night has been postponed. A new date will be announced in the coming weeks.