Snow in Florida? Rare winter weather stuns the Sunshine State as freezing temps linger
Snow is seen falling down in Pensacola, Florida. Image Credit: Luis Santana/Tampa Bay Times/ZUMA Press Wire/Shutterstock
Parts of Florida experienced rare snowfall and unusually cold temperatures over the weekend, a startling sight for a state better known for palm trees than snowflakes. The unusual winter weather event, driven by a powerful arctic air mass, brought light snow and freezing conditions to the Florida Panhandle, marking the second consecutive year the Sunshine State has seen measurable snow in January.
According to the National Weather Service (NWS), the storm system delivered up to 2 inches of snow to areas stretching from southern Alabama into northern Florida, including Pensacola, early Sunday morning. While snowfall has since tapered off, dangerously cold air remains, with freeze warnings extending into early this week.
Where Snow Fell in Florida, and Why It’s So Unusual
Snow in Florida is exceptionally rare due to the state’s subtropical climate. However, this event unfolded as a disturbance developed over the northeastern Gulf of Mexico, pulling moisture into an environment already saturated with cold air.
Meteorologists say the combination of below-freezing temperatures and sufficient moisture created ideal conditions for snow, something Florida typically lacks, even during cold snaps. The result was light accumulations across the Panhandle, while northern counties saw flurries and icy conditions.
The snowfall comes almost exactly one year after a historic January 2025 storm, when Pensacola recorded between 6 and 8 inches of snow, setting local records and drawing national attention.
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Freeze Warnings and Cold Weather Advisories Issued Statewide
While the snow itself was short-lived, the cold air behind the system is proving more persistent. The NWS issued freeze warnings for central Florida, including Orlando, where overnight temperatures dropped to 25 degrees, with wind chills dipping into the low 20s.
Farther south, Naples and surrounding areas were placed under a cold weather advisory, with wind chills near 29 degrees, conditions that are hazardous for crops, pets, and exposed plumbing.
Meteorologists stress that cold-related impacts, not snowfall, pose the greatest risk for Florida residents.
How Long Will the Florida Cold Snap Last?
Despite the dramatic conditions, forecasters say the cold spell will be brief. According to NWS meteorologist Joe Wegman, temperatures are expected to begin moderating quickly.
By Monday night, lows should rise into the upper 30s, with upper 40s expected by Tuesday night, signaling a return to more seasonable winter weather. While still cooler than normal, these temperatures are far less threatening than the weekend freeze.
Southeast Snow Extends Beyond Florida
Florida was not alone in experiencing rare winter weather. Central Georgia and southern Alabama were also affected, with some areas under winter storm warnings and snowfall totals ranging from 1 to 3 inches.
Weather experts emphasized that this was not a widespread or highly disruptive snowstorm, though slick roads and icy bridges were possible in isolated areas, especially where winter infrastructure is limited.
Why Southern Snow Events Are Gaining Attention
Though still uncommon, Southern snow events have occurred more frequently in recent years, drawing increased public and scientific interest. While meteorologists caution against attributing single events to long-term climate trends, they note that volatile weather patterns can allow arctic air to plunge unusually far south under the right conditions.
For many residents, the snowfall was more of a novelty than a hazard, but for farmers, utility providers, and emergency officials, the cold posed serious concerns.
FAQ
Did it really snow in Florida in 2026?
Yes. Parts of northern Florida, including the Panhandle, received light snowfall in January 2026 due to an unusually strong arctic air mass.
Which parts of Florida saw snow?
The heaviest snow fell in the Florida Panhandle, including areas near Pensacola. Other northern regions experienced flurries or icy conditions.
How much snow fell in Florida?
Most areas saw light accumulations, generally under 2 inches. This followed a much heavier snow event in January 2025.
Why is snow so rare in Florida?
Florida’s subtropical climate usually prevents temperatures from staying cold enough long enough for snow to form, even when winter storms pass nearby.
How cold did Florida get during this event?
Some areas dropped to 25 degrees, with wind chills in the low 20s. South Florida experienced near-freezing wind chills.
Are freeze warnings still in effect?
Freeze warnings and cold weather advisories were issued through Sunday night into Monday morning, particularly across central and southern Florida.
How long will the cold weather last in Florida?
Meteorologists expect temperatures to rebound by midweek, with lows returning to the upper 40s by Tuesday night.
Should Florida residents be concerned?
Yes, cold snaps can damage crops, burst pipes, and endanger pets, even if snowfall is minimal.