URGENT UPDATE: South Florida is on the brink of an unprecedented weather event as a surge of Arctic cold air is expected to sweep across the region this weekend, bringing a rare chance of snowfall to the Gulf Coast. Weather forecasts indicate a 10–20% chance of snow flurries late Saturday night, January 29, 2026, through Sunday morning.
This unusual phenomenon, driven by a process known as “Gulf-effect” snow, could produce light snowfall across areas from the Florida Panhandle southward to Fort Myers and Naples. According to the National Weather Service (NWS), the conditions are primed for this rare occurrence, although the probability remains low overall.
The impending nor’easter impacting the East Coast is funneling an extraordinary deep pool of cold air southward, contributing to the potential for scattered flurries or a rain/snow mixture along the coast. The NWS warns residents that while snow is possible, any accumulation is unlikely to stick to the ground.
“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,”
the NWS Tampa Bay reported via Twitter.
Gulf-effect snow occurs when cold Arctic air crosses the warmer waters of the Gulf of Mexico, causing the air to rise rapidly and generate snowfall downwind. However, even in this scenario, the chances for significant precipitation remain slim, and any snowflakes that do fall are expected to melt upon contact with the warm ground.
Historically, measurable snowfall in this region is exceedingly rare. For instance, Tampa has recorded snow only twice: a mere 0.2 inches on January 19, 1977, and 0.1 inches on February 13, 1899. Naples has never seen measurable snowfall, according to FOX Weather. While Central Florida has experienced flurries, significant accumulation is almost unheard of due to typically warm ground temperatures.
The anticipation of snow has triggered excitement and disbelief among residents, with many taking to social media to express their surprise. As temperatures are expected to plummet, the region is bracing for cold, blustery conditions, making this weekend one to remember.
Stay tuned for further updates as the situation develops, and prepare for a winter wonderland that, while fleeting, could bring joy and astonishment to South Floridians.
