Tallahassee, Florida – Snowfall transformed parts of the Florida Panhandle, central Georgia, and southern Alabama over the weekend, delivering a rare winter scene more typical of northern states. While most areas in Florida received only about an inch of snow, it was enough to briefly blanket palm trees, grass, and beaches, according to a Weather Channel report.
Winter Storm Warnings Issued Across the Southeast
Winter storm warnings were issued Saturday for a broad stretch of the Southeast, spanning from Macon, Georgia, to Tallahassee, Florida. Flurries began late Saturday night across the western Florida Panhandle, drawing residents outside for an uncommon glimpse of snow.
Although temperatures were too warm for accumulation on roads, a light dusting settled on grassy areas before gradually melting. In some coastal locations, snowflakes even reached the beaches, creating unusual images of snow resting on palm fronds.
Snowy Conditions Visible by Sunrise
By sunrise Sunday, traffic cameras along Interstate 10 showed patches of snow lining roadways across the Panhandle. While driving conditions largely remained safe, officials continued monitoring as temperatures dropped overnight.
The Georgia Department of Transportation said it deployed salt trucks and closely watched road conditions for potential black ice as colder air moved in Sunday night.
Event Marks Anniversary of Historic Gulf Coast Storm
The light snowfall arrived almost exactly one year after Winter Storm Enzo, a rare and historic system that brought heavy snow to the Gulf Coast. During that storm, Florida set a new snowfall record when Milton recorded 9.8 inches, surpassing the previous state record of 4 inches set in 1954.
For many Gulf Coast communities, last year’s storm marked the most significant snowfall since the late 1800s.
Georgia Reports Highest Snow Totals
In Georgia, Smithville and Montecito reported the highest totals, each receiving about 3 inches of snow. Traffic camera footage showed notable accumulation outside the Macon area, where snow covered roadsides and fields.
State transportation officials said crews remained on standby as temperatures dipped, increasing the risk of icy patches despite the relatively modest snowfall.
Rare Sight Leaves Lasting Impression
While the snow was short-lived, the rare wintry conditions left a lasting impression across the Southeast. From snowballs in Florida yards to snow-dusted highways in Georgia, the event served as a reminder that even typically warm regions can occasionally experience true winter weather.
