Dangerous below-freezing temperatures with even colder wind chills were also expected to last over much of the week in the region. Authorities say three people have died in the cold weather.

Snow fell in Florida's panhandle on Tuesday, blanketing roads, closing businesses and schools. Florida residents who had a rare snow day were seen in photos and videos making snowmen and having snowball fights. Meteorologists say the snow may stick around until Wednesday, but won't reach Tampa.

North Florida residents from Pensacola to Jacksonville are bracing for what is expected to be a historic, once-in-a-lifetime winter storm.