Sigificant Storm will hit Southeastern Minnesota tonight! Very strong winds 45-50MPH likely. Minor totals but sigificant blowing/drifting is possible-Travel impacts possible!

Regional Weather View.

All attention is on the 1st significantly strong storm system to hit the Midwest in some time. The main impact with this system will be widespread high winds gusting 45 to 50MPH across much of the 7 state area! gusts topping 60 are even possible in Iowa. Snow from this system will be fairly minimal but with strong winds significant blowing snow and near blizzard conditions are possible. Significant snowfall accumulations are possible in Northern Wisconsin and Upper Michigan where lake effect snow will enhance totals. It will be very cold and wind behind the system for Monday as highs struggle to reach the low 20s and 10s across the region. Even though skies will be sunny, wind chills will be low.

Regional and Local views.

Note: I will be riding out this storm in my hometown in Clayton,WI which is in Northwest Wisconsin where there will be higher snow totals 45MPH wind gusts. Updates after tonight may be difficult to post becuase of this.

Significant storm expected tonight lasting through Sunday, Highs winds and blowing snow likely!!!

A strong low pressure system will strengthen significantly as is pushes east of our area bringing high winds, blowing and drifting snow over a fairly short time period to our local area tonight lasting through Sunday afternoon. 1st rain will arrive during the late evening hours before the systems strong cold front sweeps very quickly east. Rain will turning to snow, briefly at times, then winds will increase significantly gusting 45 to 50MPH at times. I would not be surprised if some gusts reach or top 55MPH. Total accumulations will be 1-3" across our area with a few locally higher amounts possibly reaching 4 inches or higher. Even though this are not high snow totals, these with the high winds expecting will create significant blowing and drifting, near blizzard conditions are possible at times. This storm will also be fairly significant becuase it has been a mild and quiet fall. People in the local area should prepare for a strong system. Travel will not be impossible but will become very tricky tonight.

Tonight, Mild with drizzle and rain early, changing to snow and becoming very windy!!! with falling temps. Breif Heavy snow is possible with near whiteout conditions at times. Winds could gust as high as 55MPH

Sunday, Cold and Very Windy!!! Snow possible early, Near blizzard conditions with significant blowing and drifting snow possible. Winds could gust as high as 55MPH, Highs in the mid 20s with cold wind chills. Winds. Total snowfall accumulations1-3" with some higher amounts possible.

Monday, Wind and Cold! Sunny skies with cold wind chills. Highs in the mid 10s. Monday Night, Cold, Clear skies with lows in the low single digits to just below zero.

There will be no looking ahead forecast, since attention is on this significant storm system.

UpdatesX1 Snow tonight, some possibly heavy then warming up and turning windy Saturday.

Regional weather view.

A more active pattern is setting up across the Upper Midwest finally! It is not conducive for big storms but multiple little systems and clippers with move southeast through the region this week. bringing chances for accumulating snows north and snow and drizzle chances south. It will be a very mild week regardless with highs in the 30s and 40s across the north, to as warm as the lower to middle 50s in the south!

Local and Metro views.

Heavy snow possible tonight-Minor accumulations

A fairly good looking and compact weather system will slide southeast across Minnesota tonight, bringing snow to our area. The snow will mainly develop near a front tonight into tomorrow morning.  Some of this snow could be heavy at times. The heaviest snowfall accumulation  from this system will be centered of Northeast and Central parts of the area, 2-4" will fall in areas like Rochester, Cannon Falls, Red Wing and Winona, with a bit less, 1-2 for Austin and Dodge Center areas. The snow should end by 1pm Friday, afterwards clouds will be the main rule, temperatures after the snow has ending will warm to the middle to upper 30s to expect some melting right away.


Sunday storm potential?

 I am watching another weather system that has appeared in the last couple runs that needs to be watched carefully, It has the possibility to bring very strong winds and snowfall to our area. Saturday ahead of the front on strong southwest winds highs will sour to the middle 40s, possibly 50 in some spots depending on snowcover from this system. Sunday winds will switch northwest and will be come much stronger. Blowing and drifting snow could be an issue. Stay turned to weather outlets for more information on this one.

Tonight, Snow developing, some will be heavy at times. Lows in the lower 30s

Friday, Snow in the morning before ending. Total snow accumulation 1-4 inches-entire area, then cloudy in the afternoon. Highs in the upper 30s. Friday Night.

Saturday, Warm and windy with a chance of showers, highs 45 to near 50. Winds could gust to 35MPH Saturday Night. Cloudy with lows in the mid 30s

No looking ahead forecast beyond what I posted for New Years above at this time.

Warm and snowless winter continues so far highs reached 50.F today and severe drought continues to cover parts of the area. Warm temps causing some plants to start sprouting.

Snowless brown fields from Clayton,WI December 26th

Another beautiful and warm but breezy, sunny late December day occurred across the area today, as well as here in my hometown area of Western Wisconsin, where the high was a balmy 48.F today! Today was a nice day in a string of them which seems to have continued for quite some time now, in fact Only 1 day in the past 11 has been below 32.F at Rochester! Even with our low sun angle, the lack of snowcover and strong southwest winds gusting to over 40MPH lead to well above normal temperatures again today. Highs today were 45 to 50.F across the area which is 25 degrees above normal, the average high would normal be expected to be in the mid to upper 20s with lows in the teens. Christmas day was also a warm one. It was with in the top 3 warmest at Rochester officially with a high of 41 at the Rochester Airport, The high was 42 in inner city areas.

Image from NOAA

This image shown by NOAA snows how little snowcover there is across the region taken on December 21st, the only snowcover that can be found is confined to Nothern Wisconsin and far northeastern Minnesota. Everywhere else has no snow on the ground. It is not unheard of to find a lack of snowcover in the Upper Midwest, but it is certainly very unusual for our area to be having a problem holding snowcover. This is the least snow I can remember seeing on the ground so late in December. This Christmas officially went down as a brown one for all of Southeastern Minnesota and Western Wisconsin. The last brown Christmas was 2006.

Drought Monitor

Even though this fall/ early winter has been a warm one it has been very dry. The U.S Drought monitor shows drought continuing across all of Minnesota accept the far southeast part, In our local area, the Severe Drought covers parts of Goodhue couty, Dodge County, Mower County and far Northwestern Olmstead county, including Dodge Center, Austin and West Concord. Moderate drought covers the rest of Mower county, Western Fillmore, Western Olmstead and Washaba counties, and central Goodhue county, including Rochester, Chatfield and Cannon Falls. Slight drought covers most of the rest of the our area and a small part of Winona County is not effected by any drought. Fields and lawns across the region continue to show effects to this as well, they are sitll very brown since we had a dry late summer. River levels are lowering as well. One thing for sure, many and agree, we could use a good snowcover before colder weather moves in.

Highs Tuesday

 50 seemed to be the common highs temp which was experienced in Cannon Falls, Red Wing, and Lake City as well as inner city Rochester. The "coolest" was Winona at 45.F  People patiently waiting continue to hold out, Eventually it will start!

 Daffodils sprouts December 27th 2011

The extremely mild fall and early mild start to winter in the 40s and 50s has lead to spring bulbs to begin sprouting across many gardens across the area! Here in Wisconsin they are sprouting along the planting along the southern foundation, this is the "earliest" sprouting I've ever witnessed, and this is a 1st  that I've seen them sprouting just a few days after winter started! The bulbs I planted in October at Rochester had progressed even further then the ones above before I left for winter break. The good news is people do not need to worry about minor early sprouting of spring bulbs like this, once the weather cools down, and it will, the plants will stop growing and as long as flower buds remain below ground level spring shows will not be effected. I've also heard some questions that people were wondering if the mild weather would allow trees to begin sprouting and I'd like to mention that have an inner sense to not start budding until the sun has reached a certain angle. So unless we have weather continue through winter, which it will not, trees and shrubs will remain dormant until the sun angle raises.

Very mild Christmas hoilday expected. Everyday above freezing for highs, 35 to even near 45 after Christmas Day. Plenty of sunshine as well.

Regional weather view.

A very mild week in late December expected for the entire Upper Midwest as mild air combined with very little snowcover moved in. Highs well above freezing are expected region wide for through Christmas and well into next week. As we continue a pattern meant more for fall then Winter. The only snowcover that can be found will be in Western and Northern Wisconsin and Northeastern Minnesota, and even this area will be eroding fast and most will be gone by weeks end.

Local and Metro view.

Have A Great Christmas!

Due to the lack of snowcover on the ground, lots of plentiful sunshine and a mild weather pattern we can expect a very warm Holiday weekend for Southeastern Minnesota! The entire weekend will feature well above freezing highs with lots of sunshine everyday. In fact most days will be near 40 and Monday could hit the middle 40s! Lows will be in the mid to upper 20s each and every day. The only downside to an outright beautiful Christmas holiday will be strong southwest winds which will be gusty at times tomorrow, Christmas, and Monday. Then will lighten up on Tuesday, as it cools slightly but still very mild temps are expected.






Christmas Eve Day, Very Mild! Plenty of sunshine and breezy with highs in the upper 30s. Saturday Night, Clear skies, lows in the middle 20s

Christmas Day, Very Mild! Breezy southwest winds. Sunshine with highs in the upper 30s to lower 40s. Sunday Night, Clear skies lows in the middle to upper 20s

Monday, Very Warm! Breezy southwest winds. Sunny with highs in the lower to middle 40s Monday Night, Clear skies. Lows in the upper 20s.

Tuesday, Not as windy. Mild and sunny with highs in the middle to upper 30s.Tuesday Night, Clear skies, lows in the low to mid 20s

Looking Ahead

Forecast models are painting a warm dry picture continuing even as we enter January. There is only a couple light snow chances around the 29th and again on the 30th with a couple clipper systems. After this the models drag in a very mild dry airmass from the west and we will be starting off out coldest month on a very warm and dry note. There is another chance of a weak clipper system the 6th, behind it warm air continues. There is  really no arctic air of any sort to be found at all as we approach Mid January. This will be changing so check back next forecast issue.

Calm and mild weather week for Southeast Minnesota. Wednesday night light snow chance is one of the last ones before Christmas.

Regional weather view.

The main weather story will be the calm weather continuing to be in place across most of the Upper Midwest. The other weather to talk about through Tues is a system that will effect Southeast IA, MI and IL. Wednesday and Thursday a cold front will swing through following that system which will bring some light snow across the rest of the area.

Local View

Locally and in the Rochester Metro we can expect a fairly quiet weather week. Tuesday  and Wednesdat will bring Sunshine light winds and mild temps in the mid 30s, with lows in the 20s. The only chance at snow will come in Wednesday Night, lasting into Thursday with a cold front that will lead to cooler air Friday. Snow accumulations will be light a dusting to a half inch at most. This is one of the last snow chances before Christmas, so the chance of a brown Christmas in Southern Minnesota are significantly starting to increase. Friday Sunshine returns with highs in the upper 20s and lows in the 10s.








Tuesday, Sunny and mild. Light winds with highs in the mid 30s. Thursday Night, clear skies lows in the low to mid 20s

Wednesday, Sunny with increasing afternoon clouds, highs in the mid 30s. Wednesday Night, Cloudy with light snow and flurries possible. Lows in the mid 20s

Thursday, A chance of flurries in the morning then clearing skies. Highs in the low 30s Thursday Night, Clear skies, lows in the upper 10s

Friday, Sunny and cooler but still nice. Highs in the upper 20s Friday Night, clear skies lows in the mid 10s

Looking Ahead- Christmas Holiday Outlook
Looking towards the Christmas Holiday weekend   looks fairly nice for weather, mild temps and dry conditions. A dry cold front passes through on Christmas cooling things off but not bringing any moisture. The next chance of snow comes with a system pushing in from the west which will bring some chances at snow Wednesday December 28th, which may be the start of a more active pattern. Another chance of snowfall comes with a cold front after a brief warm-up on January 1st, following that fair temps with another chance of snow on the 3rd, and another to follow soon after with a cool down. People wanting snow may be much happier with January then this month has shown us.

December warmth, after the snow melted from yesterday some places quickly warmed to 50.F today!

December 18th scene from my hometown area-Clayton,WI

Widespread Midwest warmth was in place today behind a strong warm front, and the lack of snowcover across the region allowed for temps to be amplified. Starting off in the upper teens this morning, highs locally were in the 40s and even some lower 50s in spots, which is more then 20 degrees above normal! There was no shortage of warmth even here in Western Wisconsin either, the high here at Clayton was 45.F! These temps were certainly not record breaking but it was definitely the warmest I've seen so late in December, It also must be noted that this is the latest I can remember seeing bare grass into December not only at Rochester but also at my hometown as well. The warmth and lack snowcover has even in fact lead to some slight greening of the grass around yards in Rochester, and some can also be seen in my photo above! The 1-3 inch snowcover that covered Southeastern Minnesota this morning did not have a chance, and was completely melted by days end. The NWS in La Crosse posted an interesting story on it showing the snowcover melting away from southern Minnesota by satellite! That story can be found here

 Local area highs reported.

The warmest temp found in the entire area was Preston which hit 51.F, The warmest in the Rochester area was inner city locations which managed lower 50s.

Rochester Christmas decoration photos plus photos of Thanksgiving cactus in full bloom.

U.S Highway 63 in Downtown Rochester,MN

This weekend is a great weekend to get out and enjoy the beautiful Christmas decorations around Rochester and surrounding communities around Southeastern Minnesota, because it seems like every community has gotten there decorations out, and with a fresh covering of snow from last nights system blankets the area and mild temp, perfect conditions can expected for the rest of the weekend it will be perfect for viewing lights!

Lights display at Mayo Clinic, Downtown Rochester

I myself went around the view the decorations around the city and did not find a shortage becuase Rochester and it's businesses really gets into Christmas. There are multiple beautiful displays around the city. Some can be found around business and homes across the city, but there are especially nice displays in Downtown and near Mayo Clinic. The next 3 photos will show some of the decorations this area.

Display near the main entrance of Mayo Clinic

 Display in the park between the hospital highrise buildings

Lighted Spruce trees West Downtown.

These full sized spruces decorated in a different colors are found in front of St Marys.

Lights in our yard.

I wanted to include this last photos of lights are of the ones my aunt and I put on the house for the Christmas. We are ready for Christmas, hopefully the snow that fell will last through tomorrow to continue to keep everyone in the holiday mood, but with temps near 40 that may be difficult.

Thanksgiving cactus in bloom December 14th

One thing for sure, snow or no snow, my Thanksgiving cactus seem to be in the Christmas mood. There blooming a bit late then normal, but are still just as nice. My plants some which were started from cuttings continue to get larger and more beautiful each year!

System report- Warm December rainstorm. highs in the 40s with heavy downpours in spots. Former snowpack completely melted.

Green December lawn at RCTC horticulture college campus on a rainy December 14th 2011

A fairly strong, and very warm weather system moved into the region over the week, but it did not bring hefty snow amounts like some may have expected and even have been hoping for, instead it brought warmer temps, fog and steady rains with heavier downpours. I had mentioned in my forecast there was a threat of thunder, there was no thunder here in the area, but lightning was reported as far north as just to our south in North Iowa, so places near Austin may have heard some. It is not out of the ordinary to get rain instead of snow here in Southeastern Minnesota, but snow is certainly seen way more often then rain this time of year. Our snowpack was gone in the warm up 2 days prior to this event and the ground even thawed out, so it was like we were going backwards in our season! The reason why there was rain instead of snow is because the low pressure happened to move in right when a very warm airmass was already in place across the area, so instead we had a very fall like rain system. Amounts varied, but were fairly high in all areas accept southeastern parts. High end reports ranged  from 0.60 at Washaba and Lake City to 0.19 at Preston. Here in Rochester we got 0.50" which really helped to moisten up the dry soil.

Highs Wednesday

Temps were also a pretty big story in this system, it was very mild in the 40s during the day and in the upper 30s at night, which ended up in the complete demise of all the snowcover in southeastern Minnesota very early in this warmup before the rain arrived, the warmup melted all the snow within 2 days. The highest area temperature was 45.F from Preston and the lowest was Winona at 36.F.We will have to see if the next couple of weeks can bring the area a new snowcover!

Rain likely with Heavy downpours tomarrow, thunder is possible with highs in the mid 40s! Then big cooldown Thursday with flurries. Updated X1

Regional Weather View.

A complex weather system will pass through the Upper Midwest tomorrow. Warm will push well north ahead of the low. This system has more of an early fall look rather then mid December. The system will likely spread rain well up into Minnesota and Wisconsin, with only the far north experiencing snow with some accumulations. Temperatures as a result of the systems will be in the upper 30s north to as warm as the low 60s in Iowa on Wednesday. Thursday a strong cold front behind it will push much colder air and windy conditions into the region.

Local view.

Wednesdays Heavy Rain and thunder potential and Thursdays much colder weather and snow.

Wednesday the strong weather system mentioned above will move into the region. We can expect Plain old rainshowers with the potential for heavy rain and thunder to move in during the day on Wednesday. Some of the stronger cells may produce sleet and grauple so do not be alarmed if you hear thunder.  waves of steady light to moderate rain and drizzle can be expected throughout the day. It is likely by this point that what is left of our snowcover will be melted off completely. Highs Wednesday will be very mild in the mid 40s with lows near 30. Wednesday night a cold front will pass through changing any precip that's left into snow flurries. Thursday will be much cold and windy, Northwest winds will gust to 35MPH and will be cold. Light snow and flurries are possible early before clouds begin to clear.  Accumulations at this time look to be light. Highs will be in the low 30s early then dropping. Lows Thursday night will fall to the upper teens.

Wednesday, Very Mild, Steady Rainshowers and isolated thunderstorms, some heavy downpours are possible. Highs in the low to mid 40s. Wednesday Night, Drizzle eventually turning to flurries. Lows in the low 30s

Thursday, Much colder flurries and light snow in the morning. windy, with winds gusting to 35MPH highs in the low 30s. Thursday Night, colder, Clear skies lows dropping to the upper teens.

Looking Ahead

I really do not trust the long range forecasts at this point, Some days it shows snowstorm chances the next warm December weather. The 1st part of weekend looks dry and cool, with a warm up approaching on Sunday. The models have just brought in the chance for maybe some rain and snow Monday and Tuesday with a system that has more cold air available. Some heavier snow totals are possible. in parts of Minnesota and Wisconsin, including our area. Chilly dry weather moved in for Wednesday the 21st, before the models hint at another system hitting a couple of days later on Friday the 23rd. This one also appears that it may produce a shot at some snow for the local area. Christmas day looks fair for December temps, with a chance of some light snow. Then the models show a warm-up as we start to approach the end of December.

College Winter break statement-Temporary slight changes ahead at blog for the rest of the month into part of Jan- Plus cool satellite image.

This is a noticed to viewers that there will be a slight change in how things are done for the rest of the month into the 1st week of January. This week is finals week for my horticulture classes at my college, and after Thursday December 16th students will be let out for a long winter break before next semester begins! During the break I will be going back to spend some much needed time my hometown for the duration of the break. So what that will mean is I will continue to forecast for Southeastern Minnesota, accept I will be doing it from my hometown at Clayton,WI. I will include pictures and statements from there, along side my regular reporting for Southeastern Minnesota. Some of my longer time viewers will likely be able to find many recognizable scenes! I will be back to Southeastern Minnesota around the 1st week of January, where I will eventually spend my first spring in Southeastern Minnesota!

 Satellite image from NCAR

Also while I'm posting this morning I thought I would post an interesting satellite image taken at 10AM this morning. With the clear skies across much of the Midwest it is easy to spot the snowcover from satellite covering Eastern Nebraska, Northwest Iowa, Southeastern Minnesota and Northwest Wisconsin. Another area of snowcover can be seen in Southern Michigan and Indiana.  Another thing that can be seen by satellite are trees in Northern Wisconsin causing a darkening effect in the image. You can also spot where Rochester and the Twin Cities metro areas are with all the buildings roads and trees also causing darkening. Last, you can see where river valleys are in Minnesota and along the Mississippi River and fog developing in Iowa and Nebraska.

Cold temp report. Cold day across Southeastern Minnesota today. Some places started off below zero.

View of the of West Downtown skyline on a cold December 9th evening.

A very cold say across Southeastern Minnesota today as a cold high pressure sent the first arctic are of the season southward from Canada. Some places manly north and west started off below zero. The low on my station was 2.F so we have not yet fallen below zero in the city. More sunshine was seen today then in past days but it did little to warm things up. Highs remained in the teens for the 1st time of the season at every station around, including my own. My stations high today was a chilly 16.F. It felt more like January today then mid December, which was a shock to the system after a very mild fall.

Lows/Highs reported Friday December 9th.

The coldest low I found in the entire area was -4.F from Dodge Center and Zumbrota. The highest low was 3.F from Winona. The warmest daytime high was 18.F from Winona and the coldest was Dodge Center with a high of just 10.F For the Rochester area Byron was the coldest with -4.F,  Inner city stations remained around 2.F. After one more chilly day Saturday we can expect this cold air to come to and end. Highs Sunday will rise to the middle to upper 30s area wide!

Should finally see the sun tomarrow with fair temps, then arctic cold front brining more sun but the coldest temperatures so far of the season. Highs in the 10s lows near if not below zero.

Regional Weather View.

A strong arctic cold front will sweep into the region delivering very cold air from the north. There may be some light snows with this front in Iowa and that will be the only precip to speak of. The main story with this will be the coldest air of the season so far across much of the northern states.

   Local View.

Tomorrow ahead of the arctic front moving south we can expect a warmer day with the sun finally showing it's face some what, Winds should  fairly light with highs making it to the middle to upper 20s. Lows will be in the upper single digits. Thursday and Friday the front will have passed and arctic air will really begin to settle in. The coldest temperatures of the season so far are expected as highs only raise into teens both days, and lows fall into the lower single digits if now below zero both nights. Both days will be full of sunshine, but with snowcover, it will be quite cold. Friday will be the coldest day as highs barely make it into the lower to mid 10s. Saturday a with a wind shift an moderation in temperatures we can expect highs to raise to the upper 20s with sunshine. by Sunday we should have warmed up pretty nicely for temperatures, by then we can expect lower to middle 30s for highs mid 30s would be especially possible for inner city Rochester, with lows in the teens to 20s.



Wednesday, Sunny, to partly sunny with highs in the mid to upper 20s. Wednesday Night, Partly cloudy with lows in the low 10s.

Thursday, Much colder, Very cold with arctic sunshine, breezy very cold wind chills. Highs in the mid to upper 10s. Tuesday Night, Very Cold!!! Clear skies, Coldest temps of the season so far, with lows in the lower single digits above zero, some places fall to zero if not slightly below.

Friday, Very Cold!!! Arctic Sunshine highs in the upper single digits to low 10s. Friday Night, Very Cold!!! Clear skies with lows in the single digits above zero, to single digits below zero.
  
Saturday, Much Warmer, Sunny skies with highs in the lower to mid 20s. Saturday Night, Clear skies lows in the upper 10s.  

Sunday, Warmer, Nice! Sunny with highs in the low 30s to mid 30s. Sunday Night, Clear skies, lows in the low to mid 20s.

Looking Ahead

Next week starts out dry and mild, then a cold front passes through dry and brings in cooler conditions. Then Friday the 16th a strong low pressure system passes just southeast of the area bringing a snowstorm east of the area to Illinois, Wisconsin and Michigan. For the local area, bitterly cold air with light snows look likely. Of course this system will need to be kept an eye on for any western shifts that may bring it closer to the area. It remains cold and dry through the 19th before weak systems start moving into the area bringing light snow off an on. Another system may start to approach the area just before Christmas and deliver the areas some chance at snow. Stay tuned as the weeks ahead approach.
    

 

December 3rd snowfall totals. Some places had 7 inches with heavy snow reported! Fresh blanket of snow covers all of Southeastern Minnesota with 1st significant snowfall of the season.

Front yard on December 3rd 2011

Everyone is either talking about, or shoveling the snow from the 1st significant snowfall of the season. Most places got a pretty good blanketing of snow, around 4 inches, but one report I found from Spring Valley totaled 7 inches. Here at my station in West Downtown Rochester, I got 4.25"with a water content of 0.41" Which is the first time I've gotten over 0.20" of precipitation I've seen since September 27th, in what was one of the top 10 driest falls on record for Rochester.

Heavy snow falling in Downtown Rochester during the evening of December 3rd.

The storm that delivered our snowfall came from the Southwest area of the U.S, it developed over Oklahoma, and continued to develop through Kansas and Iowa before reaching Southeastern Minnesota, and it didn't stop there, it continued Northeast through Western Wisconsin to the U.P of Michigan.

Photo of my garden in Clayton,WI

 My dad sent me this photo showing a recognizable scene above. My hometown area of Western Wisconsin reported around 6 inches. The snow seemed to have trouble making it to the ground early around here in Southeastern Minnesota, but eventually it started to snow, and when it did, heavy snow quickly started. By evening most places already has enough snow to cover the ground. Travel was a bit tricky during the time of heavy snowfall, but I was glad to see the local news has not mentioned any accidents really related to weather. and actually I noticed people who were driving knew to just keep it slow.

Snowy street scene in my nieghborhood.

Depending on who you ask, many said the snow really has a delicate look to it. The temperature when most of the snow was falling was between 30 and 33 degrees at my location, and there was no wind to speak of. so it really made a beautiful scene across the city as snow piled up on even the skinniest things.

 
Here is a photo to prove how little the wind was during this system. The snow piled on top of my backyard wind gauge becuase the lack of wind stopped any movement of the gauge enough to knock the snow off!

 Winter decor pot on back deck, December 4th 2011

This Winter decor pot I designed on college finally got snow, which the last thing it needed to have that Christmasy feel.

Reported snowfall totals December 3rd 2011

This snowfall event was not a drought buster by a long shot, but it certainly helped out quite a bit, even though it came in the form of snow. There really was no generalized area that had the highest snow, just random spots that had heavier snowfall then others. The highest area wide report was 7.0" coming in from Spring Valley and the least amount came from Elgin. in the Rochester Metro, Byron had the jackpot with a total of 4.90" while the Airport had the least with 3.40"

Winter storm still looks likely for Southeastern Minnesota starting tomorrow. Significant accumulations up to 6" with higher amounts not out of question. Then very cold arctic air sinks south for next week.

Regional weather view.

Attention continues to be on a winter storm that will effect the Upper Midwest this weekend. The heaviest snow should fall in Northwestern Iowa, Southeastern Minnesota and Western/Central Wiscosnin exenting up into the UP of Michigan, significant snowfall is a possibly in these areas. Further north and west Minor accumulations are likely. Southeast of the significant snowfall potential area will deal with a mix of rain sleet and snow. Further southeast yet will have just plain rain. Arctic air will pour southeast as the system departs the region. The coldest temperatures of the season so far are likely for many areas.

Local View

Note: There is still a little time for the models to shift this storm system. any shift at all would effect totals significantly and precip type, so this map will be subject to changes.

As of right now, Locally and for the Rochester metro the first significant snowstorm of the season is still on track to hit our area starting tomorrow. Heavy snowfall effecting travel along with some areas getting low end significant snowfall amounts is likely at this point. The first waves of Snowfall will start to enter our area Saturday morning, and should be on the lighter side. but during the afternoon and during evening hours as this storm gets it's act together moderate to heavy snowfall will likely move into the area possible. Highs Saturday will be in the low 30s with lows falling into the mid 20s. Flurries could last into the morning hours Sunday, but if not we can expect a chilly cloudy day with highs not making it out of the 20s. Lows will fall into the teens overnight Sunday Night. Monday and Tuesday Under arctic sunshine and night time clear skies both days Very cold arctic air will pour southeast bringing in very cold temperatures. It is likely that highs will not get out of the 10s to low 20s  Monday and Tuesday. and lows will surly be well into the single digits possible approaching near zero in a few spots. This is far colder then any temperatures we've experienced so far this mild fall season we've had.

Snowfall totals and impacts.
 Accumulations are not longer in question, it is likely that a large swath of 4-8" will fall  throughout all parts the local area. I had mentioned before some places may get up to 10" but now it seems that 8" will probably be closer to the high end. are not out of the question. The areas with the best chances of 4+ inches will be southeast of a line from Kenyon to Frontenac. Heavy snowfall is likely with this storm especially Saturday evening, becuase of this travel issues and restricting snows will also be likely. But the good news is this is the weekend Rochester metro rush hour traffic will not be effected. Because temps will be in the lower 30s and there will be a lack of wind early in the system, the heavy snow could cause breaking of some limbs of conifers and pines. People in southern Minnesota should be prepared for a winter storm this weekend.

Cold arctic air follows behind storm.

Wither we get the highest totals in this storm or not one thing known for sure is that significantly colder air will slide southeast by the start of next week. This is especially true with the snowcover we will have on the ground. This is why I'm calling this a season changing snow becuase it is likely that once we get a thick snowcover it will a sticking snow, and temperatures will be effected. Highs as cold as the upper 10s are likely on Tuesday, with lows approaching zero in some areas. Although this is fairly typical for a southeastern Minnesota winter, becuase it has been a very warm fall, people will  find these temperatures quite cold.

Saturday,Chilly. A good chance of snow. Starting off late becoming heavy in the afternoon and evening. Highs in the low 30s. Saturday Night, A good chance of snow, heavy at times. Lows in the mid 20s.

Sunday, Snowstorm totals 4-8" Chilly and breezy. A chance of flurries in the morning, otherwise cloudy with highs in the upper 20s. Sunday Night, Cloudy with lows in the low to mid teens.

Monday, Cold! Arctic sunshine with highs in the low 20s. Monday Night,Very Cold! Coldest night of the season so far. Clear skies with lows in the mid single digits possible approaching 0 in a few areas. 


Tuesday, Cold! Arctic sunshine with highs in the teens to low 20s. Tuesday Night, Very Cold! Clear skies with lows in the mid to upper single digits.

 There will be no looking ahead forecast at this time. Forecast attention is on a potential significant winter storm.

"Winter" Finally hits Rochester and the rest of Southeastern Minnesota. Just about 1 inch fell here in Rochester this morning!

Backyard view. December 1st 2011

Winter seems to have finally reached Southeastern Minnesota, and what a better time for it to happen on the first day of meteorological winter! Our snow developed ahead of an arctic cold moving southeast across Minnesota. As proof that it is an arctic front, Temperatures at 8AM are in the low 30s here in West Downtown Rochester, while it is currently in the single digits in Northern Minnesota! Most of the snow was light, but some was falling at a fairly good rate overnight. Total accumulations were around a quarter inch to nearly 1 inch.  Here in Rochester 0.75" of snow fell so far, and light snow continues. Looking at webcams across the region this morning shows everyone got at least a coating of snow from northeast to southeast. In places like Austin, this is the 1st real accumulation of snow this season. Expect the temperatures of the day to occur right now, and then drop through the afternoon. A cold north wind will also pick up this afternoon.

Cooler breezy with Light snow from weak system arrives tomarrow, light accumulations. Then weekend snowstorm potienal?

Regional weather view.

In what appears to be a more active time ahead setting up for the Upper Midwest. a couple of systems look to produce snow across parts of the Upper Midwest. The 1st one will be fairly light on Thursday mainly across Minnesota and Wisconsin, along with parts of Northeast Iowa. A sharp cut off from cold air in Northwest Minnesota, to mild air south of there will exist. Temps in Northwest areas of the region will struggle to reach the upper teens for highs. While most other areas should get into the middle 30s to as warms as the middle 40s. Then the weekend another system approaches that is still in big question as to what areas will get what. But it appears someone in the Upper Midwest will receive some good snowfall. Right now it is targeting Western Iowa, Southeastern Minnesota and Western and Northern Wisconsin.

Local weather view.

Locally for the area we can expect some colder conditions with light snow developing Thursday Morning with a system and arctic front passing through, The light snow will last through the afternoon, but will be light in nature, and accumulations will be light only half inch up to 1 inch. Still people should remember their winter driving skills should snow accumulated on roads, and with highs in the mid 30s, it could. Lows will be the coldest of the season so far behind the front, clear skies will take place allowing lows to fall to the lower to mid to mid 10s Thursday night. Friday we will have cold sunshine and it will be dry. Highs will be in the low to mid 30s. with lows in the mid 20s Friday night.

Weekend Snowstorm Potential!

There is the potential for a weekend significant snowstorm here in Southeastern Minnesota. Take note that even though changes are likely to take place, the models have been trending this long enough that it is worth mentioning even though past systems have missed us. The models right  have been trending center of the system to pass near the Iowa, Minnesota, Wisconsin boarder. Which would put some of the highest totals possible exceeding 6 inches right here in Southeastern Minnesota. The storm it's self is still in question becuase if the track shifts northward, which some models have shown, rain would mix in and totals would be less. Still it is looking likely that precip in the form of at least some snow will fall this weekend. Sunday when the storm passes will likely be the coldest day of the season so far with highs not rising out of the 20s and lows in the 10s. Stay closely monitored to weather outlets for more details. Otherwise I will be updating this as needed.

Thursday, Breezy and Mostly cloudy with light snow in the morning and afternoon. Light accumulations of half inch to and inch likely. Highs in the low to mid 30s. Winds could gust to 25MPH Thursday Night, Cold! Clear skies with lows in the low to mid 10s.

Friday, Not as breezy with chilly sunshine. Highs in the low to mid 30s. Friday Night, Increasing clouds. Lows in the mid 20s.

Saturday/Sunday, Weekend snowstorm in question, but precip looking likely Saturday. Highs in the mid 30s. lows in the upper 20s. Sunday Cold! Highs in mid to upper 20s with lows in the mid to upper 10s.

Looking Ahead

December comes in with a much more wintery-like pattern setting up. The start and beginning of next week look  far more colder and snowy then it has been in past weeks. Highs will probably be in the low 20s some days with lows approaching the single digits. as arctic air shifts southeast. There may be another round of light snow on Monday with the arctic air. It looks slightly warmer for midweek Wednesday, before another system weak system brings more chances of snow Thursday. The models then hint at another stronger type system bringing possibly more snow to the region on the weekend of the 11th. After that it dries out and remains cool with off and on chances for light snow through the 16th.