URGENT UPDATE: South Florida is on the brink of experiencing a rare weather phenomenon this weekend, as a surge of Arctic air is set to sweep into the region, potentially bringing snow to the Gulf Coast. This unprecedented event could affect areas from the Florida Panhandle down to the Fort Myers/Naples region late Saturday night through Sunday morning, according to the National Weather Service (NWS).
Forecasts indicate a 10-20% chance of seeing snow flurries along the coast, although the likelihood remains low. The unusual weather pattern is driven by a process known as “Gulf-effect” snow, where cold Arctic air passes over the warmer waters of the Gulf of Mexico. This could lead to small bands of light snowfall in the area.
Officials warn that while snowflakes may fall, they are unlikely to accumulate on the ground due to the typically warm conditions. The NWS tweeted, “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. We do not expect this to stick to the ground.” The cold weather is the main impact to watch for this weekend, with temperatures expected to plummet.
As this rare event unfolds, the influence of a nor’easter currently affecting the East Coast is helping to funnel a deep pool of cold air unusually far south into Florida. The remaining moisture from this storm could interact with the frigid air mass on Saturday night, leading to a possibility of scattered flurries or a rain/snow mixture across the Gulf Coast.
Historically, snowfall in this area is extremely rare. Tampa has recorded measurable snowfall only twice: 0.2 inches on January 19, 1977, and 0.1 inches on February 13, 1899. Naples has never experienced measurable snowfall, according to FOX Weather. While flurries have occasionally been spotted in Central Florida, significant snow accumulation is almost unheard of due to warm ground temperatures and the climate of the Gulf of Mexico.
Residents are advised to stay updated as the forecast develops and prepare for cold, blustery conditions this weekend. As the chance for snow approaches, many are left wondering if they will witness this unusual occurrence.
Stay tuned for further updates from the National Weather Service and local authorities as this developing story unfolds.
