Introduction to Snow in the Sunshine State
A small part of Florida is experiencing a rare weather phenomenon for the second year in a row. Snow briefly covered the grass and rooftops in parts of the western Florida Panhandle on Sunday morning as just enough frigid air rushed in behind a cold front to turn the last rain showers into snowflakes in the Sunshine State.
The Snowfall in Florida
The southern snow wasn’t a once-in-a-lifetime thing. Less than a year ago, on Jan. 21, 2025, some of the same areas of Florida that briefly saw frosty lawns received up to 8 inches (20 centimeters) of snow in what was the most significant snowfall in many places since the late 1800s.
Snow photos flooded social media. There were a few flakes on the beach and snow nestled into palm fronds. It was too warm to stick to the roads, but a dusting of snow sat on the grass for a little while before mostly melting.
Snowfall in Other States
The rare snow in the South wasn’t just in Florida. Southeastern Alabama and southern Georgia also reported snow in some areas as they also celebrated a second winter wonderland in less than a year. Snow covered the ground in Columbus and Macon, Georgia, and officials warned enough might fall to make travel treacherous in spots.
Winter Weather in the North
Heavier snowfall was expected to hit New England. Three to five inches (7 to 13 centimeters) of afternoon and evening snow was predicted in Connecticut, Rhode Island and Massachusetts, where the New England Patriots were hosting the Houston Texans. Those in the Boston area could expect “wet and heavy” snow showers, said National Weather Service meteorologist Kyle Pederson, although the heaviest snowfall wasn’t expected until 7 p.m., long after the game’s 3 p.m. kickoff.
Blizzard Warning
A blizzard warning was in effect until 9 p.m. local time for parts of northwest and west central Minnesota and southeast North Dakota. Snow was expected to be limited to two inches (5 centimeters) but forecasters said that wind gusts of up to 55 mph (88 kph) could create whiteout conditions, making travel hazardous and possibly life-threatening.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the rare snowfall in Florida and other parts of the South is a significant weather event, especially given that it is the second year in a row that these areas have experienced snow. The winter weather in the North is also expected to cause disruptions, particularly in New England and the Midwest.
FAQs
Q: How much snow fell in Florida?
A: The amount of snow that fell in Florida varied, but some areas received up to 8 inches (20 centimeters) of snow last year.
Q: Which other states experienced snow?
A: Southeastern Alabama and southern Georgia also reported snow in some areas.
Q: What is the forecast for New England?
A: Three to five inches (7 to 13 centimeters) of afternoon and evening snow is predicted in Connecticut, Rhode Island and Massachusetts.
Q: Is a blizzard warning in effect?
A: Yes, a blizzard warning is in effect until 9 p.m. local time for parts of northwest and west central Minnesota and southeast North Dakota.
