Could snow fall in Florida this weekend?

Yes, an incoming winter storm may bring rare "ocean-effect" snow flurries to parts of Florida, including areas like Tampa.

When was the last time snow fell near the Bahamas?

Flurries were reported near the Bahamas in January 1977, and a similar event could occur this weekend.

What is an 'ocean-effect' snow?

Ocean-effect snow is similar to lake-effect snow, where cold Arctic air moving over warmer ocean waters can create atmospheric instability, leading to snowfall.

Home / Weather / Arctic Blast Threatens Tropical Snow Flurries

Arctic Blast Threatens Tropical Snow Flurries

30 Jan

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Summary

Rare ocean-effect snow flurries possible in Florida.
Flurries could occur near the Bahamas for first time since 1977.
A potent storm may rapidly intensify into a bomb cyclone.

Arctic Blast Threatens Tropical Snow Flurries

An Arctic blast accompanying a potent winter storm is forecast to bring rare "ocean-effect" snow flurries to regions unaccustomed to snow. Meteorologists predict this unusual phenomenon could affect areas as far south as Tampa, Florida, and even occur over the ocean near the Bahamas. This event is reminiscent of a cold outbreak in January 1977, which brought snow to places like Freeport and Miami.

The science behind "ocean-effect" snow involves cold Arctic air moving across warmer ocean waters, creating atmospheric instability. While significant accumulations are not expected, the possibility of snowflakes falling in these typically warm locales is drawing attention. Separately, the storm itself is projected to rapidly intensify into a bomb cyclone, potentially causing blizzards along the Eastern Seaboard, with winter storm watches already issued for several southeastern states.

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