In a weather event that has left meteorologists stunned and residents reaching for coats they never thought they’d need, Panama City experienced a rare and historic snowfall on May 4, 2025. The surprise winter storm dumped nearly two inches of snow across parts of the Florida Panhandle early Sunday morning, transforming beaches and palm-lined streets into an unlikely winter wonderland.

Locals woke up to find their neighborhoods blanketed in white, with snow flurries continuing through mid-morning. Social media lit up with photos of snow-covered sand dunes, snowmen on front lawns, and even snowball fights—activities virtually unheard of in a city that typically basks in 80-degree temperatures this time of year.

“It’s absolutely surreal,” said longtime resident Carol Jensen. “I’ve lived here for 40 years, and I’ve never seen anything like this in May. We were wearing flip-flops yesterday, and now my kids are sledding down the driveway on boogie boards.”

Meteorologists are calling the event a once-in-a-century anomaly. A rare combination of a strong polar vortex dip, an unusually cold front, and a low-pressure system moving in from the Gulf of Mexico created the perfect storm literally. Temperatures dropped into the low 30s overnight, setting new records for early May and allowing snow to form and accumulate.

“This is the latest measurable snowfall ever recorded in the southeastern U.S.,” said Dr. James Holloway, a climatologist with the National Weather Service. “Climate variability is increasing the likelihood of unusual patterns like this, though snow in Florida in May is practically unheard of.”

City officials temporarily closed several bridges and roads due to icy conditions, but no major accidents were reported. Schools and government offices remained closed for the day as a precaution, giving residents time to enjoy the unexpected snow day.

While the snow is expected to melt quickly as temperatures rise back into the 50s and 60s later today, the memories and the photos will likely last a lifetime. Many are already dubbing it “Mayhem May” and joking that Florida now needs to prepare for all four seasons in one week.

“This is a reminder that nature always has a few surprises up its sleeve,” Holloway added. “Even in the Sunshine State.”

Have you ever seen snow in Florida in May? Neither had anyone else—until now.