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Snow warnings across the Midwest and central states once inspired a little sympathy—and, from the warmth of Florida, perhaps a touch of smugness. Then Jan. 22, 2025, brought a history-making snowfall to the Panhandle and turned those old winter memories into a local reality.

As a child, getting ready for snow could take longer than playing in it. Boots saved from the previous winter were suddenly too small, coats restricted every arm movement, and a last-minute trip to the bathroom often came just after all the layers were finally in place.

Once outside, however, the trouble felt worthwhile. There were snowmen to build and hills to race down on sleds, even if every thrilling descent came with a long climb back to the top. Within an hour, wet and cold children were usually ready for cocoa—and the familiar ritual of removing boots, hats, mittens, coats and snow pants soaked around the cuffs.

Different snowfalls offered different possibilities. Fine powder could obscure the view like fog, while large, wet flakes were ideal for constructing snowmen and sturdy forts. That heavier snow also made the hardest snowballs, perfect for neighborhood battles followed by a quick retreat behind packed walls.

Snow lost some of its charm in adulthood. It meant shoveling, uncovering cars, navigating slippery driveways and wondering whether it was possible to reach work safely and on time.

Remote work has shortened many commutes to a walk from the bedroom to a home office, but snow days still create complications. When schools close, children may play outdoors for a while, only to return inside and leave working parents refereeing the inevitable arguments.

Those hassles seemed like distant memories in Florida—until snow began falling across the Panhandle on Jan. 22. Residents hurried outside to take pictures before it disappeared, but there was no need to rush. Four inches or more accumulated, providing plenty of time for photographs.

The region is famous for its white-sand beaches, but the storm managed to make the landscape even whiter. For anyone who had felt a little too pleased about escaping winter elsewhere, the Panhandle snowfall delivered a memorable dose of humility.