Rare Gulf-Effect Snow Possible in Parts of Florida This Weekend

Dangerously cold temperatures and wind chills expected across the state

Jan. 29, 2026 at 4:15pm

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An Arctic blast is set to bring record-breaking cold temperatures and the potential for rare Gulf-effect snow flurries to parts of Florida this weekend. The National Weather Service has issued several cold-related warnings and advisories, with the best chance of seeing snow flurries along the west coast near Tampa Bay.

Why it matters

While snow flurries in Florida are exceptionally rare, the combination of freezing temperatures and moisture from the Gulf of Mexico could briefly create the conditions for some light snowfall. This event highlights the increasing variability and extremes in Florida's weather patterns due to climate change.

The details

According to meteorologists, cold air rushing over the much warmer Gulf waters could briefly create enough instability for a few snow flurries near Tampa Bay late Saturday night into early Sunday morning. However, any snowflakes that do form are expected to melt immediately upon reaching the ground. The threat of measurable snowfall is very low, but not zero.

  • Late Saturday night, January 31 into early Sunday morning, February 1
  • Potential for snow flurries between 11 PM on January 31 and 2 AM on February 1

The players

National Weather Service Tampa Bay

The local office of the National Weather Service that covers the Tampa Bay area and has been monitoring the potential for rare Gulf-effect snow flurries.

AccuWeather

The weather forecasting company that has provided analysis on the unique meteorological conditions that could briefly allow for snow flurries in parts of Florida.

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What they’re saying

“Snow flurries in Tampa Bay are exceptionally rare, with only one confirmed measurable snowfall and just a handful of reports of flurries over the past century.”

— Brandon Buckingham, AccuWeather meteorologist

“There is a 10% to 20% of snow flurries along the (west) coast late Saturday night and into Sunday morning. We do not expect this to stick to the ground.”

— Steven Shiveley, Meteorologist, National Weather Service Tampa Bay

What’s next

The National Weather Service will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates on the potential for snow flurries in Florida. Residents in the Tampa Bay area should stay tuned to local forecasts for the latest information.

The takeaway

While snow in Florida is an exceptionally rare occurrence, the combination of freezing temperatures and moisture from the Gulf of Mexico could briefly allow for some light snow flurries this weekend. This event highlights the increasing unpredictability and extremes in Florida's weather patterns due to climate change, and serves as a reminder for residents to be prepared for potentially dangerous cold conditions.