UPDATE: A surge of Arctic cold air is set to sweep into South Florida this weekend, bringing an unprecedented chance for snowfall along the Gulf Coast. The National Weather Service (NWS) has just confirmed a 10–20% chance of snow flurries late Saturday night through Sunday morning, with areas from the Florida Panhandle to Fort Myers and Naples in the potential path.
This rare weather phenomenon, known as “Gulf-effect” snow, could result in light snowfall as cold Arctic air interacts with the warmer waters of the Gulf of Mexico. While the probability remains low, even a few flurries would be a significant event for this typically warm region.
Current forecasts indicate that moisture from an approaching nor’easter will combine with this cold air mass, heightening the likelihood of scattered flurries or a rain/snow mix across the Gulf Coast. Authorities urge residents to stay alert as conditions develop.
Did you say SNOW is in the forecast this weekend?!? 😱 There is a 10% to 20% chance of snow flurries along the coast late Saturday night and into Sunday morning. However, the NWS emphasizes that any snow is unlikely to accumulate on the ground due to the warm temperatures.
As quoted by the NWS Tampa Bay:
“Cold, blustery conditions are still the main impact this weekend.”
Gulf-effect snow occurs when extremely cold air moves over warmer Gulf waters, creating clouds and potentially snowfall downwind. The effectiveness of this process relies heavily on moisture and temperature contrasts. While this setup is uncommon, it brings a sense of excitement to residents who rarely see snow.
Historically, measurable snowfall in Tampa has only been recorded twice: 0.2 inches on January 19, 1977, and 0.1 inches on February 13, 1899. Meanwhile, Naples has never experienced measurable snowfall. Central Florida has witnessed flurries, but accumulation remains a rarity due to the warm ground and Gulf water temperatures.
As the weekend approaches, residents should prepare for an unusual weather event that could bring light flurries to an area not accustomed to winter weather. Stay tuned for updates as this developing situation unfolds.
What happens next? Keep an eye on the latest forecasts as conditions evolve, and be ready for a winter surprise in South Florida!
