Florida's 24-hour snowfall record has been surpassed as a "historic" winter storm swept along the Gulf Coast. Although the record-breaking snow—a somewhat rare sight in Florida—may be impressive to behold, heavy winter weather can disrupt travel and create hazardous driving conditions. Freezing temperatures could also present health risks, especially for vulnerable groups—including infants and older adults. Southern states, where challenging winter weather occurs less frequently than in the north, can struggle to deal with the impacts of such events.
What to Know
According to The National Centers for Environmental Information, the previous Florida record for the most snow in 24 hours was set in Milton, Santa Rosa County, on March 6, 1954, when four inches was recorded. This record was smashed after more than double the amount of snowfall fell over parts of North Florida this week, dumping a whopping 8.8 inches of snow around Milton, according to meteorologists.
In 1958, three inches was recorded over a one-day period in Hamilton, Jefferson and Okaloosa Counties. In Gulf County, 2.7 inches was recorded, also in 1958. Duval County saw 2.5 inches in 1989, as did Gadsden County in 1958. Escambia County saw 2.3 inches in 1954, and in 1977, two inches were recorded in Bradford County.
A swath of the U.S. South had been bracing for what meteorologists predicted could be a "historic" Gulf Coast winter storm. Parts of Louisiana's south has their first-ever blizzard warning from the NWS as a result of the "rare winter storm." Northern Florida and the Panhandle were under winter storm warnings from the NWS early Wednesday, with the service predicting several inches of snowfall for some parts of the state.
What People Are Saying
Meteorologist Matt Devitt said on X: "NEW FLORIDA RECORD for snowfall! The National Weather Service has confirmed 8.8" of snow fell in Milton from the winter storm...which is more than double the old state record from 1954 of 4" from...you guessed it...Milton." Meteorologist Chris Bailey said on X: "8.8" of snow so far just north of Pensacola, Florida more than doubles the previous state record for snowfall. Incredible!!"
What Happens Next
At the time of writing, the latest winter storm warnings for Florida were in effect until 1 p.m. on Wednesday. Florida residents can check local weather forecasts for the latest information on their areas. The NWS issues regular updates on its website.
Do you have a story we should be covering? Do you have any questions about this article? Contact LiveNews@newsweek.com