Wintry mix spreads across Minnesota

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It’s happening. Minnesota’s lakes this month are giving up that thick coating of winter ice. 

Some lakes are going ice-free one to more than three weeks early this season. Why are Minnesota’s lakes losing ice earlier than the long-term normals this year? 

There are three main factors leading to early ice-out dates in 2026:

Here are some select ice-out dates for Minnesota lakes so far this year compared to average. 

Mild temperatures later this week and plenty of wind should keep ice out moving northward.

Our blustery chilly Monday gives way to sunny skies and lighter winds Tuesday. Highs in the 40s south and 30s north will still feel colder than normal. The normal high now for the Twin Cities is 52 degrees. 

Wednesday brings a brief shot of milder air. Highs will reach the 60s in the south.

Scattered rain showers will sweep through Wednesday, especially across the north.

We chill back into the 50s south and 40s north Thursday and Friday.

This weekend looks like the springiest weekend so far. Highs Saturday make the 60s south once again. Sunday will be the mildest day this weekend with highs in the 70s in the south.

Scattered showers and possible thunder this weekend seem to favor timing overnight Saturday night.

Spring is always two steps forward, one step back in Minnesota. This week is a perfect example.

Weather and Climate News

Updraft® - Minnesota Weather News

Paul Huttner

Author

Ice out is running one to three weeks earlier than normal on Minnesota’s lakes this spring. 

Ice-out moving north; 60s ahead Wednesday and this weekend

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