‘Maysoon’ continues, slight severe storms risk
Springs seem to be getting wetter in Minnesota in recent years. This year is no different. Our May "monsoon" continues today.
We've soaked up nearly 9 inches of precipitation (rain and snow) since March 1 in the Twin Cities. Lakes and rivers are brimming again. The landscape is turning that classic shade of high energy green in response.
8.45 inches precipitation at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport since March 1
+2.69 inches vs. average
8.11 inches precipitation at MSP since March 1 last year
Two tornadoes and downburst damage confirmed from Thursday's severe outbreak
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This week starts soggy underfoot again, and there is a risk of a few severe storms this afternoon and this evening from the Twin Cities south and east.
Next low rides in
The next low pressure wave slides gradually northeast over the Twin Cities today. Another round of showers and thunderstorms is likely. The cooler northwest flow behind the system brings a lingering cool bias this week.
Slight severe risk
Clouds may limit some of the severe risk today, but as afternoon heating kicks in there may be enough energy to generate a few strong to severe storms from the Twin Cities south and east.
The biggest risk for severe storms with hail. damaging wind and a possible tornado runs from Rochester through Winona and Red Wing in Minnesota, to Eau Claire, Wisconsin. But we can't rule out a severe storms in the metro.
The cool backside of this week's system will bring high struggling through the 50s. Scattered frost is likely around Minnesota, and even the Twin Cities suburbs. Yes, it's still too early for anyone to declare the end of frost season in Minnesota and around the metro.
Here's a look at average last frost (32F) readings around the metro. As you can see, many locations average date of the last 32 degrees runs well into May, meaning it occurs later than that date in 50 percent of all years.
The best rule of thumb around the metro? Most years you should wait until about May 15 to plant those tender annuals.
Wednesday morning will likely produce scattered frost as close in as the metro suburbs.
Want some warmer news? The average high hit 70 degrees Saturday, and stays there through Sept. 21. Shorts and T-shirts will soon be safe most days.