While it's not clear what impact a mix of rain, freezing rain, sleet and snow may have on the capital city, officials say now is the time to begin preparations.

Part of Florida is under a Winter Storm Watch as another blast of cold air moves over the state, bringing chilly temperatures and more rain to the Tampa Bay area this week.

A new winter storm will bring rain and some of the coldest temperatures of the season to the southeastern United States, including much of Florida.

Preparations are underway from Houston to Atlanta as a rare winter storm sets its sights on the southern U.S., where it's expected to bring a messy mix of heavy snow, sleet and freezing rain that could have a major impact on travel and daily life.

The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Watch for parts of northern and northeast Florida, as well as southeast Georgia, effective from late Tuesday night through Wednesday afternoon.

Snow, freezing rain and ice can make streets impassable and even knock out power. Here's a look at what to do before freezing temperatures arrive and how to stay safe in the cold.