URGENT UPDATE: A rare weather phenomenon is set to sweep across South Florida this weekend, bringing a potential chance of snow to the Gulf Coast. The National Weather Service (NWS) has confirmed a 10% to 20% chance of seeing snow flurries late Saturday night into Sunday morning, January 28, 2026. Residents from the Florida Panhandle down to the Fort Myers/Naples region should stay alert for this unusual weather event.
This weekend’s forecast is driven by a surge of Arctic cold air that is pushing far into Florida, influenced by a developing nor’easter along the East Coast. The NWS warns that while the opportunity for snow exists, the likelihood remains low, with flurries likely to be light and transient.
The Gulf-effect snow phenomenon occurs when cold Arctic air moves over the warmer waters of the Gulf of Mexico, creating the potential for localized snowfall. As the cold air rises and interacts with moisture, small bands of snow could form, although any accumulation is not expected.
In a statement, the NWS Tampa Bay 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. Cold, blustery conditions are still the main impact this weekend.”
Historically, snowfall events in South Florida are exceptionally 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.
Should any flurries occur, they will likely melt upon contact with the warm ground, making any snow accumulation highly unlikely. However, the excitement surrounding the prospect of snow in this typically balmy region is palpable, and local residents are encouraged to share their experiences.
As winter conditions take hold, those in South Florida should prepare for colder temperatures and potential wind chills. The NWS advises that cold and blustery conditions will dominate the weekend weather, even as the snow chance remains minimal.
Stay tuned for updates as this story develops, and keep an eye on the skies this weekend for what could be a historic moment for South Florida weather.
