Central and southern Minnesota could see thunderstorms, high winds, large hail and tornadoes

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Drought is expanding and deepening across most of Minnesota.

The Twin Cities recorded just .24” of rain last month.  That’s the driest September on record going back to the late 1800s. And most Midwest locations have recorded a top 10 driest September on record according to the Midwest Regional Climate Center. 

Precipitation across most of Minnesota is less than 50% of the average in the past month. Some areas have seen less than 25% of average rainfall. 

Water levels on lakes and rivers have plummeted in the past few months. 

Lake Minnetonka rose during heavier precipitation in April and May but has plummeted almost 2 feet since early summer.

Many rivers in southern Minnesota are approaching the top 5 historic low 

Right now I still don't see any big rainfall events on the forecast maps for the next 1 to 2 weeks. Thursday’s updated 

U.S. Drought Monitor report for Minnesota

 will likely show a more expansive and deeper drought across much of southern and western Minnesota.

If we don’t receive widespread heavy precipitation before the ground freezes in late November or early December we could have troublesome drought issues next spring.

Weather and Climate News

Updraft® - Minnesota Weather News

Paul Huttner

Author

Midwest Regional Climate Center

30-day precipitation departure from average 

Drought deepens: Twin Cities still parched after the driest September on record.

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