URGENT UPDATE: A rare weather event is set to bring a potential for snowfall to parts of South Florida this weekend, with temperatures plunging due to a surge of Arctic air. Residents from the Florida Panhandle down to the Fort Myers and Naples areas could see a few snowflakes late Saturday night into Sunday morning, although the likelihood remains low at 10–20%, according to the National Weather Service (NWS).
This unusual phenomenon, known as “Gulf-effect” snow, could create small bands of light snowfall as cold air passes over the warmer waters of the Gulf of Mexico. The NWS has confirmed that remaining moisture from an incoming nor’easter will interact with this frigid air mass, possibly resulting in brief flurries or a rain/snow mixture across the Gulf Coast.
Did you hear that? SNOW is in the forecast! The NWS Tampa Bay tweeted, “There is a 10% to 20% chance of snow flurries along the coast late Saturday night and into Sunday morning.” Although any accumulation is highly unlikely, the mere prospect of snow in this region is generating excitement and disbelief among locals.
While Gulf-effect snow is rare, it occurs when extremely cold Arctic air sweeps across the warmer Gulf waters. This process can lead to the generation of clouds and snowfall downwind, contingent upon sufficient northwest winds and a significant temperature contrast between the water and overlying air. Currently, the chance for any precipitation remains low, and even if snow flurries occur, they would likely melt upon contact with the warm ground.
Historically, measurable snowfall in Florida’s Gulf Coast is exceptionally rare. Tampa recorded its only two instances of measurable snow—0.2 inches on January 19, 1977, and 0.1 inches on February 13, 1899. Naples, which may also see flurries, has never recorded measurable snowfall, according to FOX Weather.
As temperatures plunge this weekend, residents are advised to prepare for cold and blustery conditions. The potential for snow, even if fleeting, has sparked a wave of anticipation and curiosity. Authorities urge the public to stay informed as this developing situation unfolds.
What’s Next? Keep an eye on weather alerts from the NWS and local news channels for updates on this rare Gulf-effect snow event. The situation is evolving, and snow could bring both excitement and challenges for South Floridians unaccustomed to winter weather.
Stay tuned for further updates and remember to share this news—who knows, you might witness a historic moment in South Florida’s weather history!
