Thursday, April 30, 2009

Not a bad way to start the month of May

Weather Headlines

* Today: more sun than yesterday, stiff breeze, temperatures a couple degrees cooler than average....few complaints
* Isolated instability sprinkle/light shower possible well north of the Twin Cities (Brainerd Lake area) late Friday, again Saturday
* Nice weekend shaping up: Sunday looks like the nicer day with more sun and highs in the mid 60s, near 70 south/west of the Minnesota River.
* Great start to May: basically dry and seasonably mild into at least Tuesday of next week.
* Growing shower/T-storm chance late Wednesday/Thursday of next week.

Paul's Forecast

Today: Plenty of sun. A stray sprinkle is possible by late afternoon, mainly north of St. Cloud. Winds: West 10-20. High: near 60

Tonight: A few patchy clouds floating overhead. Low: 44

Saturday: Not bad at all. Partly sunny and seasonably mild. Few late-day sprinkles possible up north. High: 62

Sunday: More sun, milder. High: 66

Monday: Patchy clouds, passing shower can't be ruled out. High: 68

Tuesday: Mix of clouds and sun, still pleasant. Showers arrive Tuesday night. High: 65

Wednesday: Showers, possible thunder. High: 67

Thursday: Another round of showers, possible thundershowers. High: 65

Friday: Mostly cloudy, windy and cooler. High: 59

Saturday (May 9): Warmer with plenty of sun for the walleye/northern opener. High: 67

Sunday: More clouds than sun, brisk - noticeably cooler. High: 58

Monday: Showers and T-storms likely. High: 67

Tuesday: Periods of rain likely. High: 64

Wednesday: Rain lingers, damp. High: 62

Thursday: Intervals of sun, milder again. High: 72

Wednesday, April 29, 2009

Intervals of dripping clouds

Weather Headlines

* Showers likely today. The latest (NAM/WRF) computer model prints out around 0.15" of through the evening, while GFS predicts nearly 0.40"
*Unsettled skies return for Thursday and Friday as a cool puddle of air sits over Minnesota. A passing shower or spritz is possible through the early weekend.
* Breezy winds will add a whiff of wind chill to an already slightly cooler than average mecury reading.
* Fairly nice weekend shaping up; Sunday appears to be the sunnier, milder day with highs in the mid 60's.
* Warming trend next week: 70s possible again middle of next Week.


Todd's Forecast

Thursday: Cool and gray, showers likely. High: 58

Thursday night: Spotty showers, perhaps a thunderstorm. Low: 50

Friday: Partly sunny, slight chance of a late-day shower. Cooler than average. High: 57

Saturday: Mix of clouds and sun, isolated late-day shower or sprinkle - most of the day should be dry. High: 61

Sunday: Sunnier, nicer - no complaints. High: 64

Monday: Increasing clouds, late showers. High: 66

Tuesday: Showers linger, unsettled. High: 63

Wednesday: Sun returns, warming up. High: 68

Thursday: Increasing clouds, chance of thunder. High: 66

Friday: Showers/storms possible. High: 62

Saturday (May 9 - Walleye and Northern Opener): Mild, unsettled, few showers, possible. T-storm. High: 68

Sunday: Not great. Gray, another shower or two. High: near 70

Monday: Lingering clouds, cooler breeze kicks in. High: 62

Tuesday: Mix of clouds and sun, seasonably mild. High: 67

Wednesday: Partly sunny. High: 70

Tuesday, April 28, 2009

Souring skies, late Wednesday puddles

Weather Headlines

* Sun-splattered Tuesday, high of 62, closer to average for late April.
* April precipitation: 1.40" (.73" less than average for April in St. Cloud).
* April temperatures: about 1.2 degree F. milder than average (believe it or not!)
* Wednesday showers should hold off until late in the day, after 3-4 pm. Latest (NAM/WRF) computer model prints out .56" of rain Wednesday night, while GFS predicts .71"
* Isolated shower possible Thursday and Friday as temperatures cool slightly.
* Fairly nice weekend shaping up; Sunday appears to be the sunnier, milder day with highs topping 60.
* Big warming trend next week: 70s return next Wednesday/Thursday, 80 not out of the question.

Paul's Forecast


Today: Increasing/thickening clouds, growing chance of showers, possible thunder by late afternoon. Winds: SE 10-20. High: 59

Tonight: Rain, possibly moderate to heavy at times. Thunder possible. Low: 47

Thursday: Early showers, then clearing, drying out. High: 57

Friday: Partly sunny, slight chance of a late-day shower. Cooler than average. High: 56

Saturday: Mix of clouds and sun, isolated late-day shower or sprinkle - most of the day should be dry. High: 58

Sunday: Sunnier, nicer - no complaints. High: 63

Monday: Increasing clouds, late showers. High: 66

Tuesday: Showers linger, unsettled. High: 63

Wednesday: Some sun, mild. Risk of a T-shower. High: 73

Thursday: Showers and T-storms likely. High: 67

Friday: Cooler, leftover showers. High: 61

Saturday (May 9 - Walleye and Northern Opener): Mild, unsettled, few showers, possible. T-storm. High: 74

Sunday: Not great. Gray, another shower or two. High: near 70

Monday: Lingering clouds, cooler breeze kicks in. High: 62

Tuesday: Mix of clouds and sun, seasonably mild. High: 67

Monday, April 27, 2009

Skies brighten, lawns green up rapidly!

Weather Headlines

* Latest (NAM/WRF) computer model prints out nearly .50" of rain for Wednesday.
* 53 degree high at MSP on Monday (normal high is 63). April 27, 2008: high was only 46 F.
* April running 1.5 degrees warmer than average so far.
* April rainfall at MSP: 1.5" (about half an inch drier than average)
* Wetter pattern for the Twin Cities (and all of Minnesota) for the next 1-2 weeks.
* Nicest day in sight: today, sunshine, near 60.
* More rain/T-storms Wednesday/Thursday. Rainfall amounts probably < .25"
* Odds favor better weather for next weekend, although a shower/T-shower can't be ruled out by late in the day Sunday.
* Conditions not ripe for severe T-storms through the weekend.


Paul's Outlook

Today: Best day in sight. Plenty of sunshine. Winds: east/southeast 5-15. High: near 60

Tonight: Clouds increase, showers far western MN by daybreak. Low: 44

Wednesday: More showers arrive by PM hours, possible thunder. High: 59

Thursday: Showers and storms, some potentially heavy. High: 62

Friday: Gray start, getting sunnier with a cool wind. High: 52

Saturday: Potentially nicer day of the weekend. Mix of clouds and sun. High: 58

Sunday: Sun giving way to increasing clouds. Late shower (best chance north). High: 61

Monday: Rain likely, cool. High: near 58

Tuesday: Unsettled, leftover shower or sprinkle. High: 63

Wednesday: Sunnier, milder. High: 67

Thursday: Partly sunny, lukewarm. High: near 70

Friday: Sunny and warm. High: 73

Saturday (May 9). Warm sunshine, potentially pleasant. High: 77

Sunday (May 10). Showers and T-storms, cooling off. High: 63

Sunday, April 26, 2009

A potent case of the Monday blahs

* .70-1.00" of rain reported at MSP Sunday, high of only 50 degrees (12 degrees cooler than average).
* If you're keeping score 45" of snow has fallen during the winter season of '08-09, about 10" less than average, continuing a trend we've seen much of the last 20 years.
* Statistical odds of another "plowable" snowfall of 2"+? Probably less than 1 in 10.
* Wet snow reported over far northern MN Sunday, from near Crookston to International Falls.
* Flash Flood Watch posted for extreme southeastern MN, including Rochester and Winona area, through the morning hours today.
* Much wetter pattern for the Twin Cities (and all of Minnesota) the next 1-2 weeks.
* Nicest day in sight: Tuesday, sunshine, near 60.
* More rain/T-storms Wednesday/Thursday.
* Odds favor better weather for next weekend, although a shower/T-shower can't be ruled out by late in the day Sunday.


Paul's Outlook


Today: Lingering clouds, breezy and damp. Slight chance of a stray shower. Winds: NW 10-20. High: 54

Tonight: Patchy clouds, touch of fog possible. Low: 40

Tuesday: Best day in sight. Plenty of sunshine. High: near 60

Wednesday: More showers arrive by PM hours, possible thunder. High: 59

Thursday: Showers and storms, some potentially heavy. High: 62

Friday: Gray start, getting sunnier with a cool wind. High: 52

Saturday: Potentially nicer day of the weekend. Mix of clouds and sun. High: 58

Sunday: Sun giving way to increasing clouds. Late shower (best chance north). High: 61

Monday: Rain likely, cool. High: near 58

Tuesday: Unsettled, leftover shower or sprinkle. High: 63

Wednesday: Sunnier, milder. High: 67

Thursday: Partly sunny, lukewarm. High: near 70

Friday: Sunny and warm. High: 73

Saturday (May 9). Warm sunshine, potentially pleasant. High: 77

Sunday (May 10). Showers and T-storms, cooling off. High: 63

Good news for farmers, gardeners (and ducks)

Weather Headlines

* No sun for Sunday: another surge of low pressure tracking across the Plains will spread a cold rain across Minnesota & Wisconsin today - heaviest rains: midday and PM hours.
* .50 to .70" of rain possible later today, thunder can't be ruled out - good news for farmers, gardeners, anyone with a lawn in the process of greening up.
* Slight severe T-storm risk extends into far southeastern MN later today, near Rochester, Austin.
* Slowly drying out Monday - dry Tuesday, more showers/storms likely next Thursday/Friday.
* No more 80s in sight: temperatures average a couple degrees below normal through next week.

Paul's Outlook

Today: Cloudy with rain developing, heavy at times midday and early afternoon. A few thunderstorms, strong to severe far south and southeastern MN. Winds: east 10-20+ High: 53

Tonight: Lingering clouds, showers. Low: 41

Monday: Not as soggy: Mostly cloudy, spotty shower or sprinkle. High: 53

Tuesday: Bright sun, springlike again. High: 55

Wednesday: Sun giving way to increasing clouds. High: 57

Thursday: Growing risk of showers, possible T-storm. High: 56

Friday: Unsettled and stormy, a few strong storms? High: 58

Saturday (May 2): Damp start, becoming partly sunny. High: 61

Sunday: Mostly cloudy. High: 58

Monday: Mix of clouds and sun. High: 62

Tuesday: Some sun, humid, PM T-storm. High: 68

Wednesday: Partly cloudy, mild. High: 70

Thursday: More clouds than sun, muggy. High: 69

Friday: PM shower/T-storm. High: 71

Saturday: Unsettled, scattered T-storms around town. High: 73


* Remember, the 15-Day Outlook is more of a trend than a forecast. Accuracy drops off rapidly with time, especially during fast-moving weather patterns with strong jet stream winds. That said, numerical weather models have some "skill", some level of accuracy, going out about 14 days or so. Look more for the overall trends (getting warmer, wetter, cooler, drier, etc?) than specifics for each day beyond Day 7. This is an experimental tool - hopefully one that will become more accurate and reliable as time goes on. Stay tuned....

Saturday, April 25, 2009

Good news (for ducks)

Weather Headlines

* Clouds linger over the metro area, keeping us cooler during the day Saturday, but frost-free Saturday night.
* Patchy frost over northern half of Minnesota Saturday night, where skies have cleared - a reminder that you should wait until Mother's Day, even Memorial Day, until planting annuals.
* Storm Parade goes on: another surge of low pressure tracking across the Plains will spread a cold rain across Minnesota & Wisconsin Sunday - heaviest rains: midday and PM hours.
* .50 to .70" of rain possible Sunday, thunder can't be ruled out - good news for farmers, gardeners, anyone with a lawn in the process of greening up.
* Slight severe T-storm risk extends into far southeastern MN Sunday, near Rochester, Austin.
* Slowly drying out Monday - dry Tuesday, more showers/storms likely next Thursday/Friday.

Paul's Outlook

Tonight: Clear to partly cloudy, chilly. Low: 40

Sunday: Cloudy with rain developing, heavy at times midday and early afternoon. A few thunderstorms, strong to severe far south. Winds: east 10-20+ High: 53

Sunday night: Lingering clouds, showers. Low: 41

Monday: Not as soggy: Mostly cloudy, spotty shower or sprinkle. High: 53

Tuesday: Bright sun, springlike again. High: 55

Wednesday: Sun giving way to increasing clouds. High: 57

Thursday: Growing risk of showers, possible T-storm. High: 56

Friday: Unsettled and stormy, a few strong storms? High: 58

Saturday (May 2): Damp start, becoming partly sunny. High: 61

Sunday: Mostly cloudy. High: 58

Monday: Mix of clouds and sun. High: 62

Tuesday: Some sun, humid, PM T-storm. High: 68

Wednesday: Partly cloudy, mild. High: 70

Thursday: More clouds than sun, muggy. High: 69

Friday: PM shower/T-storm. High: 71

Saturday: Unsettled, scattered T-storms around town. High: 73


* Remember, the 15-Day Outlook is more of a trend than a forecast. Accuracy drops off rapidly with time, especially during fast-moving weather patterns with strong jet stream winds. That said, numerical weather models have some "skill", some level of accuracy, going out about 14 days or so. Look more for the overall trends (getting warmer, wetter, cooler, drier, etc?) than specifics for each day beyond Day 7. This is an experimental tool - hopefully one that will become more accurate and reliable as time goes on. Stay tuned....

A tormented spring weekend

* Friday: 60 degree temperature extreme across Minnesota, from low 90s near Rochester and Austin to low 30s + moderate snow near Bemidji and Park Rapids. A tale of 3 seasons - all - quite conveniently - in one state.
* Couple inches of slushy snow possible far northern Minnesota - most of it should be gone by late morning Saturday.
* Saturday: probably the brighter, drier day of the weekend, enough sun for low/mid 50s.
* Sunday storm pushes moisture back into Minnesota, nearly 1" of rain may fall Sunday PM hours.
* Jacket weather returns: 50s today, but a cold rain may confine temperatures to the 40s Sunday. Soggy for St. Paul Art Crawl.


Today: Probably the nicer day of the weekend, damp start, then intervals of sun - dry. Cooler. Winds: N/NW 10-20. High: 55

Tonight: Partly to mostly cloudy, cool. Low: 38

Sunday: Early sun, then clouding up. Rain, possibly heavy at times (thunderstorms possible). High: 49

Monday: Lingering showers, still cool and damp. High: 58

Tuesday: Partly sunny, shower possible. High: 60

Wednesday: Lingering clouds, cool. High: 54

Thursday: Passing clouds and sun. High: 57

Friday: An unsettled sky, risk of pm thunder? High: near 65

Saturday (May 3). Warmer, partly sunny. High: 69

Sunday: Weather maps looking warmer, sunnier. High: Near 70

Monday: Afternoon thunder? High: mid 70's

Tuesday: Cooler, lingering showers. High: mid 60's

Wednesday: Soggy, showery, seasonably mild. High: Near 60

Friday, April 24, 2009

More severe storm coverage (threat is well south and east of the Twin Cities)

Amazing image of the developing (severe) storms mushrooming just to our east. RUN to the window to check these out, they appear to be vast, sprawling, thermonuclear towers of rapidly rising air. Once these violent columns of rising air reach the stratosphere (where temperatures get warmer with altitude) the air spreads out into the classic "anvil" shape, the T-storm's flat "cap". Low 90s in southeastern Minnesota, while recent reports show rain mixing with a little wet snow up in Park Rapids last hour. What a crazy state we live in!
Doppler Radar image showing large, hail-producing "supercell" thunderstorms tracking toward Winona, Lake City and La Crosse area. Reports of 1.5 to 2" diameter hail east of Rochester. The red outlines of "polygons" are provided by the NWS; these are the "high-threat" areas within specific counties where the risk of hail/damaging winds is greatest. Remember that a severe storm watch is posted for southeastern MN and much of Wisconsin until 11 pm. Tornadoes can form in situations like this, even though a tornado watch isn't posted. This squall line will probably continue to intensify up until 8 or 9 pm - but again, the risk is now well south/east of MSP.

Severe T-storms mushroom over southeast MN

(image captured from GR3 Doppler Radar software shortly before 6 pm showing hail producing "supercell" thunderstorms. The green triangles mark locations of 1-2" hail reports) The individual cells are moving east to northeast at 25-35 mph, moving away from the Twin Cities metro area.

* Severe storm watch posted for most of southeastern MN until 11 pm (does NOT include the metro area)
* Reports of 1-2" diameter hail from severe storms, isolated wind damage, even a tornado, can't be ruled out, especially over southwestern Wisconsin.
* 92 earlier today at Rochester, 38 Moorhead. Greatest storm risk appears to shift just south/east of the Twin Cities into the evening hours.
* Winds shift around to the north/northwest as cooler front arrives - main severe storm risk is over Wisconsin, Iowa and extreme southeastern MN later today - probably no hail/high winds for the immediate metro area.
* Eau Claire - Menomonie - Winona - Albert Lea line on east: greatest threat of severe weather.
* Red Flag Warning: very high threat of brush fires, due to dry, windy conditions; conditions should improve over the weekend as rain arrives, humidity rises.
* Saturday: nicer day of the weekend - cooler, but dry with some intervals of sunshine
* Sunday: next storm surges north with rain, over 1" may fall (strong T-storms into southern MN?)
* So long 80s - weekend temperatures in the 40s/50s. 60s return next week.

Paul's Forecast


Friday: Unsettled, still mild. Scattered showers/T-storm, some strong to severe over far southeastern Minnesota and Wisconsin by evening. Winds: W 10-20. High: 73

Friday night: Wisconsin storms early, then gradual clearing. Low: 44

Saturday: Nicer day of the weekend, damp start, then intervals of sun - dry. Cooler. Winds: N/NW 10-20. High: 55

Sunday: Rain, possibly heavy at times (thunderstorms possible). High: 52

Monday: Lingering showers, still cool and damp. High: 58

Tuesday: Partly sunny, shower possible. High: 60

Wednesday: Lingering clouds, cool. High: 54

Thursday: Passing clouds and sun. High: 57

Friday: An unsettled sky, risk of pm thunder? High: near 65

Saturday (May 3). Warmer, partly sunny. High: 69

Sunday: Weather maps looking warmer, sunnier. High: Near 70

Monday: Afternoon thunder? High: mid 70's

Tuesday: Cooler, lingering showers. High: mid 60's

Wednesday: Soggy, showery, seasonably mild. High: Near 60

Thunder threat later today greatest over Wisconsin and Iowa

Paul's Headlines

* 92 at Rochester, 38 Moorhead. Greatest storm risk appears to shift just south/east of the Twin Cities into the evening hours.
* Winds shift around to the north/northwest as cooler front arrives - main severe storm risk is over Wisconsin, Iowa and extreme southeastern MN later today - probably no hail/high winds for the immediate metro area.
* Eau Claire - Menomonie - Winona - Albert Lea line on east: greatest threat of severe weather.
* Red Flag Warning: very high threat of brush fires, due to dry, windy conditions; conditions should improve over the weekend as rain arrives, humidity rises.
* Saturday: nicer day of the weekend - cooler, but dry with some intervals of sunshine
* Sunday: next storm surges north with rain, over 1" may fall (strong T-storms into southern MN?)
* So long 80s - weekend temperatures in the 40s/50s. 60s return next week.

Paul's Forecast


Friday: Unsettled, still mild. Scattered showers/T-storm, some strong to severe over far southeastern Minnesota and Wisconsin by evening. Winds: W 10-20. High: 73

Friday night: Wisconsin storms early, then gradual clearing. Low: 44

Saturday: Nicer day of the weekend, damp start, then intervals of sun - dry. Cooler. Winds: N/NW 10-20. High: 55

Sunday: Rain, possibly heavy at times (thunderstorms possible). High: 52

Monday: Lingering showers, still cool and damp. High: 58

Tuesday: Partly sunny, shower possible. High: 60

Wednesday: Lingering clouds, cool. High: 54

Thursday: Passing clouds and sun. High: 57

Friday: An unsettled sky, risk of pm thunder? High: near 65

Saturday (May 3). Warmer, partly sunny. High: 69

Sunday: Weather maps looking warmer, sunnier. High: Near 70

Monday: Afternoon thunder? High: mid 70's

Tuesday: Cooler, lingering showers. High: mid 60's

Wednesday: Soggy, showery, seasonably mild. High: Near 60

Thursday, April 23, 2009

Warmth, Wind, Friday Fireworks?

Paul's Headlines

* 85 Thursday in the cities, 1 degree shy of an all-time record (86 in 1990). Normal high for this date is 61. Other highs: 84 at St. Cloud, 92 at Redwood Falls.
* Red Flag Warning remains posted for very high brushfire threat, winds gust over 30 mph.
* Cool frontal passage sparks showers/storms Friday, a tiny percentage may be severe (especially south/east of the Twin Cities). Expect some watches/warnings Friday.
* Slight severe threat southern/eastern MN and much of Wisconsin/Iowa.
* 30-35 degrees cooler by Saturday, periods of rain likely.


Thursday night: Windy and unseasonably warm, more like mid summer! Low: 64


Friday: Unsettled, still mild. Scattered showers/T-storm, some strong to severe in southern Minnesota. High: 73

Saturday: Mostly cloudy, scattered showers, even a period of steadier rain. Cooler. High: 54

Sunday: Lingering clouds, sprinkle. Cooler. High: 56

Monday: Spotty shower. High: 58

Tuesday: Partly sunny, shower possible. High: 60

Wednesday: Lingering clouds, cool. High: 54

Thursday: Passing clouds and sun. High: 57

Friday: An unsettled sky, risk of pm thunder? High: near 65

Saturday (May 3). Warmer, partly sunny. High: 69

Sunday: Weather maps looking warmer, sunnier. High: Near 70

Monday: Afternoon thunder? High: mid 70's

Tuesday: Cooler, lingering showers. High: mid 60's

Wednesday: Chance of a dripping sky. High: Near 60

Wednesday, April 22, 2009

Mock Tornado Warning/drill set for Thursday - 1:45

Weather Headlines

* Thursday - Warmest day of the week, 80's likely. Would be the first 80 degree reading of the year (average first occurs May 4th for St. Cloud) Optimistic backyard and bank thermometers may flirt with the mid 80's.
* Grills about to be fired up: Grilling Alert may be upgraded to Barbecue Warning.
* Shower/T-storm risk Thursday and Friday, some severe in southern Minnesota Friday?
* Severe Weather Awareness week is this week (April 20th-24th)
* Tornado Drill set this Thursday statewide at 1:45pm, with the exception of far NW MN because of flooding concerns.

Todd's Forecast

Thursday: Warmest day of the week, breezy. Overnight storms possible. High: 81

Friday: Unsettled, still mild. Scattered showers/T-storm, some strong to severe in southern Minnesota. High: 68

Saturday: Mostly cloudy, scattered showers. Cooler. High: 54

Sunday: Lingering clouds, sprinkle. Cooler. High: 56

Monday: Spotty shower. High: 58

Tuesday: Partly sunny, shower possible. High: 60

Wednesday: Lingering clouds, cool. High: 54

Thursday: Passing clouds and sun. High: 57

Friday: An unsettled sky, risk of pm thunder? High: near 65

Saturday (May 3). Warmer, partly sunny. High: 69

Sunday: Weather maps looking warmer, sunnier. High: Near 70

Monday: Afternoon thunder? High: mid 70's

Tuesday: Cooler, lingering showers. High: mid 60's

Wednesday: Chance of a dripping sky. High: Near 60

80+ degrees likely for Thursday

Wednesday AM Update:

Weather Headlines

* Today: noticeable change in the wind speed and temperatures, feeling like spring again!
* Grills likely to be fired up Today and tomorrow.
* 80 degrees likely Thursday... Optimistic backyard and bank thermometers may sneak up to the mid 80's.
* Growing shower/T-storm risk by the end of the week - some could be severe in southern Minnesota Friday.
* Severe Weather Awareness week is this week (April 20th-24th)
* Tornado Drill set this Thursday statewide at 1:45pm, with the exception of far NW MN because of flooding concerns.

Todd's Forecast

Wednesday: Mostly sunny and feeling much warmer with lighter winds. High: 63

Thursday: Warmest day of the week, breezy. Overnight storms possible. High: 81

Friday: Unsettled, still mild. Scattered showers/T-storm, some strong to severe in southern Minnesota. High: 68

Saturday: Mostly cloudy, scattered showers. Cooler. High: 54

Sunday: Lingering clouds, sprinkle. Cooler. High: 56

Monday: Spotty shower. High: 58

Tuesday: Partly sunny, shower possible. High: 60

Wednesday: Lingering clouds, cool. High: 54

Thursday: Passing clouds and sun. High: 57

Friday: An unsettled sky, risk of pm thunder? High: near 65

Saturday (May 3). Warmer, partly sunny. High: 69

Sunday: Weather maps looking warmer, sunnier. High: Near 70

Monday: Afternoon thunder? High: mid 70's

Tuesday: Cooler, lingering showers. High: mid 60's

Wednesday: Chance of a dripping sky. High: Near 60

Tuesday, April 21, 2009

I predict you'll have spring fever again in about 48 hour!

* Today: Breezy - feeling seasonably cool! Light jacket and sunglasses weather.
* Noticeable change in the wind speed and temperature Wednesday, feeling like spring again!
* Grills likely to be fired up Wednesday through Friday.
* Still not throwing 80° out of the forecast for Thursday... REALLY, It's possible! Optimistic backyard and bank thermometers may flirt with the reading during the mid/late afternoon hours.
* Growing shower/T-storm risk by the end of the week into the weekend.
* Severe Weather Awareness week is this week (April 20th-24th)!!
* Tornado Drill set this Thursday statewide at 1:45pm, with the exception of far NW MN because of flooding concerns.

Todd's Forecast

Today: Sunnier! Still breezy, feeling cool... Although, air temperatures will be closer to average High: 57

Wednesday: Mostly sunny and feeling much warmer with lighter winds. High: 65

Thursday: Warmest day of the week, late May early June weather! Overnight storms possible. High: 79

Friday: Unsettled, still mild. Scattered showers/T-storm. High: 70

Saturday: Shower and storm risk moves south through the day. High: 65

Sunday: Lingering clouds, sprinkle. Cooler. High: 62

Monday: Spotty shower, cooler. High 56

Tuesday: Chance for showers, cool. High: 57

Wednesday: Lingering clouds, cool. High: 54

Thursday: Passing clouds and sun. High: 60

Friday: An unsettled sky, risk of pm thunder? High: near 59

Saturday (May 3). Warmer, partly sunny. High: 66

Sunday: Weather maps looking warmer, sunnier. High: Near 70

Monday: Sunnier/warmer, May-ish! High: mid 70's

Tuesday: Shower? High: Near 70

Monday, April 20, 2009

Mundane Monday, Turning Tuesday and Worldly different Wednesday!

* Much cooler today with a spritz/sprinkle or light rain shower, nothing major... Winter Storm Warning along MN's North Shore - Aren't we done with winter?
* Feels like temperatures in the 40's will be appropriate for heavier jackets/rain slickers.
* Breezy through Tuesday, but more sun and moderating temperatures!
* 70s likely by midweek
* Scattered showers/T-storms possible this weekend
* Severe Weather Awareness week is this week (April 20th-24th)!!
* Tornado Drill set this Thursday statewide at 1:45pm, with the exception of far NW MN because of flooding concerns

Todd's Forecast

Monday: Mostly cloudy, breezy and cool enough for 'heavier' jackets. Scattered light rain showers through early afternoon giving way to peeks of sunshine late. High: 48

Tuesday: Sunnier and milder, still breezy - Temperatures closer to average High: 58

Wednesday: More sunshine, Feeling much warmer with lighter winds High: 68

Thursday: Warmest day of the week, late May-ish weather! High: 75

Friday: Unsettled, still mild. Isolated showers/T-storm late? High: 70

Saturday: Shower/afternoon storm. High: 66

Sunday: Isolated showers/storms possible again by PM. High: 62

Monday: Mix of clouds and sun, breezy and seasonably cool. High: 56

Tuesday: Chance for showers, cool. High: 52

Wednesday: Lingering clouds, cool. High: 54

Thursday: Passing clouds and sun. High: 58

Friday: An unsettled sky, risk of pm thunder? High: near 60

Saturday (May 3). Chance of rain - changeable. High: 63

Sunday: Weather maps looking warmer. High: Near 70

Monday: Sunnier/warmer, May-ish! High: mid 70's

Sunday, April 19, 2009

Slate Gray Sunday Gives Way to Mild Sun This Week!

* Much cooler today with a spritz/sprinkle or light rain shower, nothing major... Snow along MN's North Shore - Aren't we done with winter?
* Clouds, sprinkles may linger much of Monday due to a weak storm aloft.
* More sun Tuesday and Wednesday as temperatures mellow.
* GFS computer model hinting at temperatures near 80 (!) by next Friday.
* 2009 MN Walleye Fishing Opener just under 3 weeks away!

Todd's Forecast

Sunday: Mostly cloudy, breezy and chilly - periods of spritzes/sprinkles and light rain showers early. Winds: North 10-15. High: 52

Tonight: Mostly cloudy, cool breeze. A passing drip still possible. Low: 39

Monday: Mostly gray and unsettled with a few more passing showers. Breezy. High: 54

Tuesday: More sun, milder. High: 57

Wednesday; Sunny, a notable spring in your step. High: 64

Thursday: Partly cloudy, more humid. (Isolated Showers?) High: 73

Friday: Breezy and warm with a stray shower or T-storm possible. High: nearing 80??!!

Saturday: Fading sun, unsettled. Growing T-storm chance. High: near 70

Sunday (April 26). Lingering showers, breezy, a bit cooler. High: 60

Monday: Mix of clouds and sun, breezy and seasonably cool. High: 57

Tuesday: Chance for showers, cool. High: 57

Wednesday: A passing shower or thunderstorm. High: 56

Thursday: Lingering clouds, more rain possible. High: 58

Friday: An unsettled sky, risk of pm thunder. High: near 65

Saturday (May 3). Chance of rain - changeable. High: 63

Sunday: Chance of showers and storms, some heavy. High: 66

Saturday, April 18, 2009

A serious case of the Sunday Soggies

* Another pleasant day in the Twin Cities area, but a wind shift (more to the north/northeast) cools things off a bit.
* Latest computer run keeps most of the rain to our south/east on Sunday, but .10 to .20" of rain possible, with 4-6 hours of rain for the metro area.
* Clouds, sprinkles may linger much of Monday due to a weak storm aloft.
* More sun next Tuesday and Wednesday as temperatures mellow.
* GFS computer model hinting at temperatures near 80 (!) by next Friday.
* Conditions coming together for possible severe T-storm outbreak a week from today.

Paul's Forecast

Tonight: Mostly cloudy, cool breeze. A little light rain is possible late. Low: 41

Sunday: Mostly cloudy, breezy and chilly - periods of light rain and drizzle. Winds: North 10-20. High: 52

Monday: Mostly gray and unsettled with a few more sprinkles. High: 54

Tuesday: More sun, milder. High: 57

Wednesady; Sunny, a notable spring in your step. High: 62

Thursday: Partly cloudy, more humid. High: 74

Friday: Breezy and warm with a stray shower or T-storm possible. High: near 80

Saturday: Fading sun, unsettled. Scattered T-storms, some heavy to potentially severe. High: near 70

Sunday (April 26). Lingering showers, breezy, a bit cooler. High: 63

Monday: Mix of clouds and sun, breezy and seasonably cool. High: 57

Tuesday: Fading sun, milder. High: 63

Wednesday: A passing shower or thunderstorm. High: 68

Thursday: Lingering clouds, more rain possible. High: 64

Friday: An unsettled sky, risk of thunder. High: near 70

Saturday (May 3). Windy and warm with some sun. High: 76

Sunday: Chance of showers and storms, some heavy. High: 73

Today: best day to sneak outside

Weather Headlines

* Today: 13th day in a row of rain-free weather in the Twin Cities
* 73 degree high on Friday, some 10-15 degrees above normal for April 17. Average high: 58.
* More statistics: average date of the first 70 in the metro area? April 13. (thanks to Pete Boulay at the MN State Climate Office for that nugget of information).
* Today: nicer day of the weekend, some fleeting sun possible (especially south & east of Twin Cities, where highs may top 70).
* Winds shift to the north/northeast later today, keeping us 5-10 degrees cooler than Friday was.
* Best chance of light rain: tonight through midday Sunday.
* Some drying/brightening possible later in the day Sunday, but jacket weather returns, highs stuck in the 50s (40s north).
* Warming trend returns next week, more 60s likely by midweek.
* Growing shower/T-storm risk by Thursday/Friday of next week. The weekend outlook doesn't look promising for April 25/26 - some rain is likely, but that's GREAT NEWS for farmers, gardeners, and parched lawns and fields statewide.


Paul's Forecast

Today: Nicer day of the weekend. Partly sunny, milder than average. Winds: north/northeast 10-15. High: 65 (near 70 again south/east of the metro).

Saturday night: A period of rain expected. Low: 49

Sunday: Not as nice. Mostly cloudy with light rain. Skies may dry/brighten by mid or late afternoon. High: 51

Monday: Plenty of sun, closer to "average" for mid April. High: 57

Tuesday: Sunny and milder, feeling feverish again! High: near 60

Wednesday: Fading sun, almost balmy! High: near 70

Thursday: Unsettled (but warm) with a growing chance of a shower or T-storm. High: 74

Friday: Some sun, another shower or two nearby. High: 68

Saturday (April 25): More clouds than sun - few showers, possible thunder. High: 69

Sunday: Showers taper early, turning cooler. High: 60 (falling into the 50s)

Monday: Some sun (heavier rain Monday night). High: 55

Tuesday: Chilly! Rain, possibly heavy at times. High: 48

Wednesday: Another shower or two. High: 53

Thursday (April 30): Partly sunny, breezy. High: 56

Friday: Cool, potentially showery. High: near 50

Today still appears to be the better outdoor day

Weather Headlines

* 73 degree high on Friday, some 10-15 degrees above normal for April 17. Average high: 58.
* More statistics: average date of the first 70 in the metro area? April 13. (thanks to Pete Boulay at the MN State Climate Office for that nugget of information).
* Today: nicer day of the weekend, some fleeting sun possible (especially south & east of Twin Cities, where highs may top 70).
* Winds shift to the north/northeast later today, keeping us 5-10 degrees cooler than Friday was.
* Best chance of light rain: tonight through midday Sunday.
* Some drying/brightening possible later in the day Sunday, but jacket weather returns, highs stuck in the 50s (40s north).
* Warming trend returns next week, more 60s likely by midweek.
* Growing shower/T-storm risk by Thursday/Friday of next week. The weekend outlook doesn't look promising for April 25/26 - some rain is likely, but that's GREAT NEWS for farmers, gardeners, and parched lawns and fields statewide.


Paul's Forecast

Today: Nicer day of the weekend. More clouds than sun, dry most of the day. Winds: north/northeast 10-15. High: 65

Saturday night: A period of rain expected. Low: 49

Sunday: Not as nice. Mostly cloudy with light rain. Skies may dry/brighten by mid or late afternoon. High: 51

Monday: Plenty of sun, closer to "average" for mid April. High: 57

Tuesday: Sunny and milder, feeling feverish again! High: near 60

Wednesday: Fading sun, almost balmy! High: near 70

Thursday: Unsettled (but warm) with a growing chance of a shower or T-storm. High: 74

Friday: Some sun, another shower or two nearby. High: 68

Saturday (April 25): More clouds than sun - few showers, possible thunder. High: 69

Sunday: Showers taper early, turning cooler. High: 60 (falling into the 50s)

Monday: Some sun (heavier rain Monday night). High: 55

Tuesday: Chilly! Rain, possibly heavy at times. High: 48

Wednesday: Another shower or two. High: 53

Thursday (April 30): Partly sunny, breezy. High: 56

Friday: Cool, potentially showery. High: near 50

Friday, April 17, 2009

The Weekend Outlook: Not All Bad

Weather Headlines

* Another amazing day across central Minnesota, in spite of patchy high clouds, highs top out in the low 70s, some 10-15 degrees above normal for April 17.
* More statistics: average date of the first 70 in the metro area? April 13. (thanks to Pete Boulay at the MN State Climate Office for that nugget of information).
* Saturday: nicer day of the weekend, some fleeting sun possible (especially south & east of Twin Cities, where highs may top 70).
* Winds shift to the north/northeast Saturday PM, keeping us 5-10 degrees cooler than Friday was.
* Best chance of light rain: Saturday night through midday Sunday.
* Some drying/brightening possible later in the day Sunday, but jacket weather returns, highs stuck in the 50s (40s north).
* Warming trend returns next week, more 60s likely by midweek.
* Growing shower/T-storm risk by Thursday/Friday of next week. The weekend outlook doesn't look promising for April 25/26 - some rain is likely, but that's GREAT NEWS for farmers, gardeners, and parched lawns and fields statewide.


Paul's Forecast

Tonight: Patchy clouds, should stay dry. Unseasonably mild for mid April. Low: near 50

Saturday: Nicer day of the weekend. More clouds than sun, dry most of the day. Winds: north/northeast 10-15. High: 65

Saturday night: A period of rain expected. Low: 49

Sunday: Not as nice. Mostly cloudy with light rain. Skies may dry/brighten by mid or late afternoon. High: 51

Monday: Plenty of sun, closer to "average" for mid April. High: 57

Tuesday: Sunny and milder, feeling feverish again! High: near 60

Wednesday: Fading sun, almost balmy! High: near 70

Thursday: Unsettled (but warm) with a growing chance of a shower or T-storm. High: 74

Friday: Some sun, another shower or two nearby. High: 68

Saturday (April 25): More clouds than sun - few showers, possible thunder. High: 69

Sunday: Showers taper early, turning cooler. High: 60 (falling into the 50s)

Monday: Some sun (heavier rain Monday night). High: 55

Tuesday: Chilly! Rain, possibly heavy at times. High: 48

Wednesday: Another shower or two. High: 53

Thursday (April 30): Partly sunny, breezy. High: 56

Friday: Cool, potentially showery. High: near 50

Thursday, April 16, 2009

An Early May

Weather Headlines

* Thermometers brush 70 in the metro area for the first time all year in some suburbs.
* Red Flag Warning remains in effect for central, south central and southeastern Minnesota; risk of brushfires remains high due to gusty winds, low humidity, bright sun and a lack of rain.
* Thursday: 12th day in a row with no rain in central Minnesota.
* Afternoon temperature at Duluth Harbor: 39, with a chilling breeze off Lake Superior
* 3.6% of Minnesota suffering from severe drought conditions (far southeast, along the Mississippi River; 41% of Wisconsin in a severe drought right now).
* Low 70s likely Friday as high clouds increase, most of Saturday stays dry.
* Southern storm arrives with a cold rain Sunday. Have a Plan B, indoors Temperatures may hold in the 40s to near 50.
* Nice warm-up returns for next week.


Today: Partly to mostly cloudy, still mild, still dry. Winds: S/SW 10-20. High: 72

Tonight: Patchy clouds, a shower or two far western MN. Low: 44

Saturday: (Not great, but probably the better day of the weekend). Mostly cloudy and cooler. A period of rain arrives Saturday night. High: near 62

Sunday: Periods of rain, chilly. Steadiest rains fall south/east of St. Cloud. High: 50 (falling into the 40s later).

Monday: Better, becoming partly sunny. High: 57

Tuesday: Plenty of sun, feels like spring again. High: 63

Wednesday: Fading sun, May returns! High: near 70

Thursday: Chance of showers, possible thunder. High: 67

Friday: Showers and T-storms, turning cooler. High: 59

Saturday (April 25). Leftover clouds, cool. High: 54

Sunday: Better, more sun, milder. High: 65

Monday: Sun fades behind increasing clouds. High: 63

Tuesday: Showers, possible thunder. High: 68

Wednesday: Rain lingers, cooler. High: 63

Thursday: Turning gusty and cooler, lot's of clouds. High: 54

An Early May

Weather Headlines

* Thermometers brush 70 in the metro area for the first time all year in some suburbs.
* Red Flag Warning remains in effect for central, south central and southeastern Minnesota; risk of brushfires remains high due to gusty winds, low humidity, bright sun and a lack of rain.
* Thursday: 12th day in a row with no rain in central Minnesota.
* Afternoon temperature at Duluth Harbor: 39, with a chilling breeze off Lake Superior
* 3.6% of Minnesota suffering from severe drought conditions (far southeast, along the Mississippi River; 41% of Wisconsin in a severe drought right now).
* Low 70s likely Friday as high clouds increase, most of Saturday stays dry.
* Southern storm arrives with a cold rain Sunday. Have a Plan B, indoors Temperatures may hold in the 40s to near 50.
* Nice warm-up returns for next week.
* Don Shelby does a story on WeatherNation (provider of the SC Clouds weather content) tonight during the 10 PM news.

Tonight: Clear to partly cloudy and not as chilly. Low: 41

Friday: Partly to mostly cloudy, still mild, still dry. Winds: S/SW 10-20. High: 72

Saturday: Mostly cloudy and cooler. A period of rain arrives Saturday night. High: near 62

Sunday: Periods of rain, chilly. Steadiest rains fall south/east of St. Cloud. High: 50 (falling into the 40s later).

Monday: Better, becoming partly sunny. High: 57

Tuesday: Plenty of sun, feels like spring again. High: 63

Wednesday: Fading sun, May returns! High: near 70

Thursday: Chance of showers, possible thunder. High: 67

Friday: Showers and T-storms, turning cooler. High: 59

Saturday (April 25). Leftover clouds, cool. High: 54

Sunday: Better, more sun, milder. High: 65

Monday: Sun fades behind increasing clouds. High: 63

Tuesday: Showers, possible thunder. High: 68

Wednesday: Rain lingers, cooler. High: 63

Thursday: Turning gusty and cooler, lot's of clouds. High: 54

Too Nice? Red Flag Warning

Weather Headlines

* Red Flag Warning in effect for much of Minnesota, including Twin Cities metro area. Combination of low relative humidity (10-15%), gusty winds and bright sun means a very high risk of brushfires.
* Today: 11th dry day in a row in the Twin Cities.
* 70 a real possibility across the area later today, again Friday.
* Slight chance of an isolated shower or T-shower Thursday PM over far western MN, most of the rain should hold off until Saturday night and Sunday.
* Cold enough aloft for a few flurries Sunday night? Right now no accumulation is expected close to home.
* Rapid warming returns next week, more 60s by midweek.
* Another chance of (more significant) rain toward the end of next week.
* Don Shelby files a story on WeatherNation tonight at 10 PM on Channel 4.


Today: RED FLAG WARNING (HIGH RISK OF BRUSHFIRES STATEWIDE). Fading sun, breezy and mild. Winds: S/SE 10-20, higher gusts. High: 68

Tonight: Patchy high clouds, not as chilly. Low: 42

Friday: A mix of clouds and sun, still mild. High: near 70

Saturday: Mostly cloudy, showery rains expected to move in by Saturday night, cooler. High: 58

Sunday: Periods of rain, possibly ending as a little wet snow/flurries Sunday night. High: 45

Monday: Getting sunnier, a bit milder. High: 53

Tuesday: Mostly sunny, feels like spring again! High: 57

Wednesday: Spring Fever Alert. Lukewarm sun, hard to focus. High: 64

Thursday: Clouds increase. High: 67

Friday: Rain likely, heavy at times. High: 62

Saturday: Showers linger, the damper day of the weekend. High: 56

Sunday: Wet start, early puddles, then increasing sunshine by PM. High: near 60

Monday: Mix of clouds and sun, seasonable. High: 63

Tuesday: Sun giving way to increasing clouds. High: 65

Flirting with 70

Weather Headlines

* Brushfires flare up in the Twin Cities metro area Wednesday. (around Shakopee). The same thing may happen again later today as winds increase, coupled with very low relative humidity.
* 70 a real possibility across the area later today, again Friday.
* Slight chance of an isolated shower or T-shower Thursday PM, most of the rain should hold off until Saturday night and Sunday.
* Cold enough aloft for a few flurries Sunday night? Right now no accumulation is expected close to home.
* Rapid warming returns next week, more 60s by midweek.
* Another chance of (more significant) rain toward the end of next week.
* Don Shelby files a story on WeatherNation tonight at 10 PM on Channel 4.


Today: Fading sun, breezy and mild. Winds: S/SE 10-20, higher gusts. High: 68

Tonight: Patchy high clouds, not as chilly. Low: 42

Friday: A mix of clouds and sun, still mild. High: near 70

Saturday: Mostly cloudy, showery rains expected to move in by Saturday night, cooler. High: 58

Sunday: Periods of rain, possibly ending as a little wet snow/flurries Sunday night. High: 45

Monday: Getting sunnier, a bit milder. High: 53

Tuesday: Mostly sunny, feels like spring again! High: 57

Wednesday: Spring Fever Alert. Lukewarm sun, hard to focus. High: 64

Thursday: Clouds increase. High: 67

Friday: Rain likely, heavy at times. High: 62

Saturday: Showers linger, the damper day of the weekend. High: 56

Sunday: Wet start, early puddles, then increasing sunshine by PM. High: near 60

Monday: Mix of clouds and sun, seasonable. High: 63

Tuesday: Sun giving way to increasing clouds. High: 65

Wednesday, April 15, 2009

Fire & Flood

* Brushfires flare up in the Twin Cities metro area (around Shakopee).
* Afternoon temperatures range from 70 at Canby & Redwood Falls to a chilly 39 at the Duluth harbor (the result of a cold breeze off Lake Superior, where water temperatures are still stuck in the upper 30s).
* 70 a real possibility across central Minnesota Thursday, again Friday.
* Slight chance of an isolated shower or T-shower Thursday PM, most of the rain should hold off until Saturday night and Sunday.
* Cold enough aloft for a little wet snow or flurries Sunday night. Right now no accumulation is expected.
* Rapid warming returns next week, more 60s by midweek.
* Another chance of (more significant) rain toward the end of next week.
* Happy Tax Day. Better yet, Happy Earth Day!

* Tune into WCCO AM 830 between 4 and 5 pm, and WCCO 4 News at 10 pm for an update on WeatherNation, reported by Don Shelby.

Tonight: Clear and comfortably cool. Low: 39

Thursday: Fading sun, breezy and mild. Winds: S/SE 10-20, higher gusts. High: 68

Friday: A mix of clouds and sun, still mild. High: near 70

Saturday: Mostly cloudy, showery rains expected to move in by Saturday night, cooler. High: 58

Sunday: Periods of rain, possibly ending as a little wet snow/flurries Sunday night. High: 45

Monday: Getting sunnier, a bit milder. High: 53

Tuesday: Mostly sunny, feels like spring again! High: 57

Wednesday: Spring Fever Alert. Lukewarm sun, hard to focus. High: 64

Thursday: Clouds increase. High: 67

Friday: Rain likely, heavy at times. High: 62

Saturday: Showers linger, the damper day of the weekend. High: 56

Sunday: Wet start, early puddles, then increasing sunshine by PM. High: near 60

Monday: Mix of clouds and sun, seasonable. High: 63

Tuesday: Sun giving way to increasing clouds. High: 65

Distractingly Nice

Weather Headlines

* Tune in Don Shelby's radio show on 830, WCCO-AM, in the 4 pm hour to hear more about WeatherNation's new alliance with Conservation Minnesota and MinnPost.
* Some of the best weather of the year on tap for this week, mid 60s again today through Friday, a shot at 70 by the end of the week.
* Shower risk for Friday has diminished - most towns may not see rain until Saturday - Sunday morning (rainfall amounts should stay under .25").
* Cooling off early next week, highs hold in the 40s to near 50 Monday.
* Slow warming trend next week, but probably not as balmy as this week.
* Good news for the flood-ravaged Red River Valley. River expected to crest near 37' by Saturday, according to the NWS. That would be 2-3 feet BELOW record crest on March 28.
* NWS may issue FIRE WARNING for western Minnesota for this afternoon as winds increase. Combination of sun + tinder-dry relative humidity + strong/gusty winds will enhance the risk of brushfires until rain arrives this weekend.
* Stormier pattern shaping up for next week, and the week after that. Enjoy the quiet spell!



Today: Sunny & spectacular! You'll notice a bit more of a breeze by afternoon. Winds: SE 10-20. High: 65

Tonight: Mostly clear, still serene. Low: 40

Thursday: Sun dimmed by high clouds. High: 67

Friday: Partly sunny and mild - more like May. High: near 70

Saturday: Wettest day in sight. Periods of rain likely. High: 58

Sunday: Rain taper early, some PM clearing. High: 53

Monday: Sunshine returns, pleasant again. High: 59

Tuesday: More clouds, windy, a bit cooler. High: 55

Wednesday: Bright, cool sunshine. High: 58

Thursday: Clouds increase, unsettled, but milder. High: 68

Friday: Cooler with periods of rain. High: 54

Saturday: Brightening up with periods of sunshine. High: 55

Sunday: More rain developing. High: 51

Monday: Cool, damp and wet. More rain likely. High: near 50

Tuesday (April 28): Clearing, more seasonable again. High: near 60

(Reminder: the 15-Day Outlook is more of a trend than a forecast. Accuracy drops off very quickly after 4-5 days, especially in this kind of a fast-moving weather pattern. Use the 15-Day as a tool to see how temperatures and precipitation patterns are trending over time. Tune in often, there WILL be changes as new data and computer models arrive @ WeatherNation).

P.S. Many thanks for checking out the new & improved weather column. I firmly believe there are new (and ultimately better) ways to tell the weather story, but it has to evolve into more of a conversation than a speech. that means integrating social media, interactivity, and the power to personalize maps for specific regions and towns. I hope you'll watch some of the videos on the Conservation Minnesota site, we've invested a lot of money and time to build 3 new HD weather studios in Excelsior; we're about to hire our 7th on-air meteorologist: bilingual, born in Panama with a meteorology degree from Florida State). I have been blessed with a great team of meteorologists, developers, sales gurus and assorted techs, all of them dreamers and doers...anxious to reinvent weather and make it more colorful, useful and relevant. By the way, I'm really not bitter about what happened to me a little more than a year ago. Life is too short to be spent looking back and fuming - it was the kick in the pants I needed to get serious about a few ideas I've been dreaming about in recent years. WeatherNation is one of them, the other is Singular Logic, a technology and patent company trying to personalize the advertising we all have to muddle through on a daily basis. I don't pretend to have the answer key, but we're asking a lot of questions out here on Lake Minnetonka. With your help (and participation) we'll come up with a next generation weather service, one that integrates with Twitter, Facebook and whatever comes next!

Tuesday, April 14, 2009

A raging case of spring fever!

Weather Headlines

* Some of the best weather of the year on tap for this week, mid 60s again Wednesday through Friday, a shot at 70 by the end of the week.
* Shower risk for Friday has diminished - most towns may not see rain until Saturday - Sunday morning (rainfall amounts should stay under .25").
* Cooling off early next week, highs hold in the 40s to near 50 Monday.
* Slow warming trend next week, but probably not as balmy as this week.
* Good news for the flood-ravaged Red River Valley. River expected to crest near 37' by Saturday, according to the NWS. That would be 2-3 feet BELOW record crest on March 28.
* NWS may issue FIRE WARNING for western Minnesota for Wednesday afternoon as winds increase. Combination of sun + tinder-dry relative humidity + strong/gusty winds will enhance the risk of brushfires until rain arrives this weekend.
* Stormier pattern shaping up for next week, and the week after that. Enjoy the quiet spell!

Tonight: Clear, cool and comfortable. Low: 37

Wednesday: Sunny & spectacular! Winds: SE 10-20. High: 65

Thursday: Sun dimmed by high clouds. High: 67

Friday: Partly sunny and mild - more like May. High: near 70

Saturday: Wettest day in sight. Periods of rain likely. High: 58

Sunday: Rain taper early, some PM clearing. High: 53

Monday: Sunshine returns, pleasant again. High: 59

Tuesday: More clouds, windy, a bit cooler. High: 55

Wednesday: Bright, cool sunshine. High: 58

Thursday: Clouds increase, unsettled, but milder. High: 68

Friday: Cooler with periods of rain. High: 54

Saturday: Brightening up with periods of sunshine. High: 55

Sunday: More rain developing. High: 51

Monday: Cool, damp and wet. More rain likely. High: near 50

Tuesday (April 28): Clearing, more seasonable again. High: near 60

(Reminder: the 15-Day Outlook is more of a trend than a forecast. Accuracy drops off very quickly after 4-5 days, especially in this kind of a fast-moving weather pattern. Use the 15-Day as a tool to see how temperatures and precipitation patterns are trending over time. Tune in often, there WILL be changes as new data and computer models arrive @ WeatherNation).

P.S. Thanks for checking out the new & improved weather column. I firmly believe there are new (and ultimately better) ways to tell the weather story, but it has to evolve into more of a conversation than a speech. that means integrating social media, interactivity, and the power to personalize maps for specific regions and towns. I hope you'll watch some of the videos on the Conservation Minnesota site, we've invested a lot of money and time to build 3 new HD weather studios in Excelsior; we're about to hire our 7th on-air meteorologist: bilingual, born in Panama with a meteorology degree from Florida State). I have been blessed with a great team of meteorologists, developers, sales gurus and assorted techs, all of them dreamers and doers...anxious to reinvent weather and make it more colorful, useful and relevant. By the way, I'm really not bitter about what happened to me a little more than a year ago. Life is too short to be spent looking back and fuming - it was the kick in the pants I needed to get serious about a few ideas I've been dreaming about in recent years. WeatherNation is one of them, the other is Singular Logic, a technology and patent company trying to personalize the advertising we all have to muddle through on a daily basis. I don't pretend to have the answer key, but we're asking a lot of questions out here on Lake Minnetonka. With your help (and participation) we'll come up with a next generation weather service, one that integrates with Twitter, Facebook and whatever comes next!

A hint of May

Headlines

* 58 degree high on Monday, April temperatures running 2.7 F below average so far.
* Latest sloppy southern storm passes well south of Minnesota, brushing us with patchy clouds.
* Rain ends as a little slushy snow west of Chicago.
* More sun today, low 60s should feel good.
* Shower risk increases Thursday (slight chance of thunder). Showery rains linger into Saturday and Sunday.
* Cooling off noticeably by Tuesday/Wednesday of next week as jacket weather returns to much of Minnesota. Flurries possible over the MN Arrowhead!


Today: More sun, distractingly nice. Winds: East 5-10. High: 62

Tonight: Mostly clear and cool. Low: 38

Wednesday: Fading sun, spring fever returns. High: 64

Thursday: Unsettled with more clouds, slight risk of a passing shower, possible thunder. High: near 67

Friday: Damp with a few hours of rain, gusty winds, mild. High: 68

Saturday: Wetter day of the weekend. steadier rain, have a Plan B (indoors). High: 56

Sunday: Wet start, showers/sprinkles taper, some sun by afternoon. High: 52

Monday: More sun, a bit milder. High: 59

Tuesday: Breezy, turning cooler with ample sun. High: 52 (40s up north).

Wednesday: Sunny start, increasing PM clouds. High: 54

Thursday: More rain, cool and damp. High: 50

Friday: Some sun, another shower or two. High: 55

Saturday: Mix of clouds and sun. High: near 60

Sunday: Intervals of sun, seasonably cool. High: 58

Monday: More sun, milder again. High: 63

Tuesday: Clouds increase. High: 61

(reminder/disclaimer: forecast accuracy drops rapidly over time, beyond 4-5 days any prediction is more of a "trend" than a forecast. As new data arrives [4 new computer model runs/day] the forecast will most definitely change. A strong spring jet stream means rapid weather changes, which makes a long-range trend even more challenging). This forecast is experimental, underscoring the limitations of meteorology.)

Monday, April 13, 2009

A Wild Spring Ride

Headlines

* Latest sloppy southern storm passes well south of Minnesota, brushing us with patchy clouds.
* Slushy snow possible as close as Quad Cities, Iowa overnight.
* More sun Tuesday, shot at 60 degrees.
* Shower risk increases Thursday (slight chance of thunder). Showery rains linger into Saturday and Sunday.
* Cooling off noticeably early next week as jacket weather returns to central Minnesota.

Tonight: Gradual clearing, seasonably cool. Low: 33

Tuesday: More sun, distractingly nice. High: 61

Wednesday: Fading sun, spring fever returns to central Minnesota. High: 63

Thursday: Unsettled with more clouds, passing shower, possible thunder. High: near 67

Friday: Damp with a few hours of rain, gusty winds, mild. High: 68

Saturday: Showers linger, have a Plan B (indoors). High: 56

Sunday: Wet start, showers/sprinkles taper, some clearing possible later in the day. High: 53

Monday: Better chance of seeing the sun, milder again. High: near 62

Tuesday: Blustery winds, turning cooler - few passing showers. High: 54 (falling)

Wednesday: Colder with more clouds than sun, windy with a sprinkle or flurry. High: 46

Thursday: More sun, less wind, still chilly. High: 49

Friday: Plenty of sunshine, a bit springier. High: 55

Saturday: Chance of showers. High: near 60

Sunday: Showers taper, gradual clearing. High: 58

Monday: Mix of clouds and sun, pleasant. High: 63

Tuesday: Clouds increase. High: 58

Sunday, April 12, 2009

Temperature Roller Coaster

Headlines:

* Memorable Easter Weekend gives way to mid and high level clouds, temperatures 5 degrees above average.
* Band of showers over N. Dakota should fizzle before reaching the metro area, but Monday will be cloudier.
* More sun Tuesday and Wednesday
* Warming into thhe 60s much of this week, 70 not impossible midweek. Shower possible Thursday, heavier rain (T-storms) on Friday, which looks like the wettest day of the week.
* Latest model: showers may spill over into Saturday: some clearing possible next Sunday afternoon.
* It's still early, but there's a good chance of wind chill and flurries returning in about 10 days. Sorry, I'm just the messenger. I hope the computers are wrong.


Tonight: Patchy clouds - light winds. Low: 38

Monday: Partly to mostly cloudy, probably dry. High: 57

Tuesday: Getting sunnier and nicer again. High: 64

Wednesday: Sunny start, then increasing clouds. High: 66

Thursday: Good chance of showers, even some steadier rain. High: 62

Friday: Windy and gray with showers tapering. High: near 55

Saturday: Damp, a few lingering showers/sprinkles. High: 53

Sunday: Gray, wet start, but some PM clearing possible. High: 57

Monday: Partly cloudy, milder again. High: 64

Tuesday: Gusty with showers, turning colder. High: 56

Wednesday: More clouds, passing flurries and sprinkles. High: 42 (feels like 20s!)

Thursday: Mostly sunny, chilly. High: 48

Friday: Fading sun, a bit milder. High: 52

Saturday (April 25): More like spring, some sun. High: 62

An Easter Sunday to Remember!

Weather Headlines

* Average Twin Cities high temperature on Easter: 55 F. Some thermometers approach 60 this afternoon
* High, thin (cirrus) clouds increase Sunday PM hours, dimming the sun from time to time.
* "Omega Block" pattern in the jet stream (storms on either coast, high pressure sandwiched in-between over the Northern Plains) will keep us dry and seasonably mild into the first half of next week.
* Rain/snow mix possible near Rockford, Illinois, maybe a slushy coating for northern Illinois.
* First chance of rain: Thursday/Friday.
* Saturday, April 18th: potentially damp start, but skies brighten later in the day. Sunday (April 19) still appears to be the sunnier, drier, nicer day of the 18th/19th April weekend.
* GFS computer model hinting at 70 in roughly 12-13 days!


Easter Sunday: Sun dimmed by high clouds, still very pleasant. Winds: SE 10-15 High: near 60

Tonight: Patchy clouds - light winds. Low: 38

Monday: Partly to mostly cloudy, probably dry. High: 54

Tuesday: Getting sunnier and nicer again. High: 55

Wednesday: Sunny start, then increasing clouds. High: 57

Thursday: Good chance of showers, even some steadier rain. High: 53

Friday: Windy and gray with showers tapering. High: near 50

Saturday: Damp start, early sprinkles, then gradual PM clearing. High: 52

Sunday (April 19) Nicer day of the weekend. More sun, a bit milder. High: 55

Monday: Partly cloudy, milder again. High: 65

Tuesday: A mix of clouds and sun, breezy. High: 61

Wednesday: More clouds, slightly cooler. High: 58

Thursday: Mostly sunny, "above average". High: 63

Friday: Fading sun, a serious case of spring fever. High: 68

Saturday (April 25): Mildest day yet? Partly sunny, almost warm! High: near 70

Saturday, April 11, 2009

Nothing to complain about

Weather Headlines

* Average Twin Cities high temperature on Easter: 55 F. Some thermometers may approach 60 Sunday afternoon
* High, thin (cirrus) clouds increase Sunday PM hours, dimming the sun from time to time.
* "Omega Block" pattern in the jet stream (storms on either coast, high pressure sandwiched in-between over the Northern Plains) will keep us dry and seasonably mild into the first half of next week.
* Rain/snow mix possible near Rockford, Illinois, maybe a slushy coating for northern Illinois.
* First chance of rain: next Thursday/Friday.
* Saturday, April 18th: potentially damp start, but skies brighten later in the day. Sunday (April 19) still appears to be the sunnier, drier, nicer day of the 18th/19th April weekend.


Tonight: A few high clouds dimming the moon. Low: 31 (25-29 outside of town).

Easter Sunday: Sun dimmed by high clouds, still very pleasant. Winds: SE 10-15 High: 58

Monday: Partly to mostly cloudy, probably dry. High: 54

Tuesday: Getting sunnier and nicer again. High: 55

Wednesday: Sunny start, then increasing clouds. High: 57

Thursday: Good chance of showers, even some steadier rain. High: 53

Friday: Windy and gray with showers tapering. High: near 50

Saturday: Damp start, early sprinkles, then gradual PM clearing. High: 52

Sunday (April 19) Nicer day of the weekend. More sun, a bit milder. High: 55

Monday: Partly cloudy, milder again. High: 65

Tuesday: A mix of clouds and sun, breezy. High: 61

Wednesday: More clouds, slightly cooler. High: 58

Thursday: Mostly sunny, "above average". High: 63

Friday: Fading sun, a serious case of spring fever. High: 68

Saturday (April 25): Mildest day yet? Partly sunny, almost warm! High: near 70

Easter Weekend Perfection

Weather Headlines

* Easter Weekend temperatures running 5 degrees above average.
* "Omega Block" pattern in the jet stream (storms on either coast, high pressure sandwiched in-between over the Northern Plains) will keep us dry and seasonably mild into the first half of next week.
* Storm track to remain south of Minnesotea for the next week or more, only a slight chance of a shower or sprinkle Sunday night/Monday.
* Rain/snow mix possible over Iowa Easter Sunday, coating - 1" slush Sunday night?
* First chance of widespread rain: next Thursday/Friday.
* Saturday, April 18th: potentially damp start, but skies clear during the day. Sunday (April 19) still appears to be the sunnier, drier, nicer day of the 18th/19th April weekend.




Today: Mostly-blue sky, milder, very pleasant. Winds: SE 5-15. High: 58

Tonight: Plenty of moonshine, light winds. Low: 33

Easter Sunday: Sun giving way to increasing PM clouds - should stay dry. High: 57

Monday: Unsettled, gray - a spotty shower or two (most rain stays to our south, could be mixed with a few wet snowflakes near the Iowa border). High: 53

Tuesday: Getting sunnier and nicer again. High: 55

Wednesday: Sunny start, then increasing clouds. high: 56

Thursday: Growing chance of showers, even some steadier rain. High: 54

Friday: Windy and cooler with precipitation tapering to sprinkles. High: near 50

Saturday: Cool, unsettled, a few showers/sprinkles giving way to late clearing. High: 48

Sunday (April 19): Nicer, milder, better day of the weekend - sun much of the day. High: 55

Monday: Blend of clouds and sun, springy again. High: 61

Tuesday (April 21): Showers, possible thunder. High: 57

Wednesday: Leftover clouds, cooler. High: 52

Thursday: Partly sunny. High: 54

Friday: More showers, possible thunder. High: 58

(reminder/disclaimer: anything more than a 4-5 day outlook is more of a "trend" than a forecast, especially during spring and fall, when weather systems move rapidly and skies can change dramatically. Computer models update twice daily and the long-range weather trend will change over time, hopefully becoming more accurate as newer, fresher, more accurate weather data initializes the weather computers).

Friday, April 10, 2009

A Remarkably Nice Holiday Weekend

Weather Headlines

* Easter Weekend temperatures running 5 degrees above average.
* "Omega Block" pattern in the jet stream (storms on either coast, high pressure sandwiched in-between over the Northern Plains) will keep us dry and seasonably mild into the first half of next week.
* Storm track to remain south of Minnesotea for the next week or more, only a slight chance of a shower or sprinkle Sunday night/Monday.
* Rain/snow mix possible over Iowa Easter Sunday, coating - 1" slush Sunday night?
* First chance of widespread rain: next Thursday/Friday.
* Saturday, April 18th: potentially damp start, but skies clear during the day. Sunday (April 19) still appears to be the sunnier, drier, nicer day of the 18th/19th April weekend.



Tonight: Mostly clear, uneventful. Low: 34

Saturday: Mostly-blue sky, milder, very pleasant. Winds: SE 5-15. High: 58

Easter Sunday: Sun giving way to increasing PM clouds - should stay dry. High: 57

Monday: Unsettled, gray - a spotty shower or two (most rain stays to our south, could be mixed with a few wet snowflakes near the Iowa border). High: 53

Tuesday: Getting sunnier and nicer again. High: 55

Wednesday: Sunny start, then increasing clouds. high: 56

Thursday: Growing chance of showers, even some steadier rain. High: 54

Friday: Windy and cooler with precipitation tapering to sprinkles. High: near 50

Saturday: Cool, unsettled, a few showers/sprinkles giving way to late clearing. High: 48

Sunday (April 19): Nicer, milder, better day of the weekend - sun much of the day. High: 55

Monday: Blend of clouds and sun, springy again. High: 61

Tuesday (April 21): Showers, possible thunder. High: 57

Wednesday: Leftover clouds, cooler. High: 52

Thursday: Partly sunny. High: 54

Friday: More showers, possible thunder. High: 58

(reminder/disclaimer: anything more than a 4-5 day outlook is more of a "trend" than a forecast, especially during spring and fall, when weather systems move rapidly and skies can change dramatically. Computer models update twice daily and the long-range weather trend will change over time, hopefully becoming more accurate as newer, fresher, more accurate weather data initializes the weather computers).

Feeling Feverish....

Weather Headlines

* Spring fever reaches epidemic proportions across central & southern Minnesota as temperatures rise into the low 50s.
* "Omega Block" pattern in the jet stream (storms on either coast, high pressure sandwiched in-between over the Northern Plains) will keep us dry and seasonably mild into much of next week.
* Storm track to remain south of Minnesota for the next week or more, only a slight chance of a shower or sprinkle Easter Sunday/Monday.
* More of a southerly wind component Saturday, 60 not impossible from Maple Grove to Cottage Grove.
* Saturday appears to be the nicer, sunnier day of the weekend; probably dry for Easter Sunday services, but more clouds likely on Easter.
* Weather cooperating for Easter and Passover festivities from Wisconsin and Minnesota westward to the Dakotas.



Good Friday: Plenty of sun, seasonably mild. Winds: NE 5-10. High: 55

Tonight: Mostly clear, uneventful. Low: 34

Saturday: Nicer day of the weekend. Mostly-blue sky, milder. Winds: SE 5-15. High: near 60

Easter Sunday: Clouds increase, slight chance of a PM shower/sprinkle, especially west toward Alexandria, Willmar and Detroit Lakes. High: 54

Monday: Unsettled, gray - a spotty shower or two (most rain stays to our south). High: 53

Tuesday: Getting sunnier and nicer again. High: 55

Wednesday: Sunny start, then increasing clouds. high: 56

Thursday: Growing chance of showers, even some steadier rain. High: 54

Friday: Windy and cooler with precipitation tapering to sprinkles. High: near 50

Saturday: Cool, unsettled, a few showers/sprinkles. High: 48

Sunday: Nicer, milder, better day - sun reappears. High: 54

Monday: Blend of clouds and sun, springy again. High: 61

Tuesday (April 21): Showers, possible thunder. High: 57

Wednesday: Leftover clouds, cooler. High: 52

Thursday: Partly sunny. High: 54

(reminder/disclaimer: anything more than a 4-5 day outlook is more of a "trend" than a forecast, especially during spring and fall, when weather systems move rapidly and skies can change dramatically. Computer models update twice daily and the long-range weather trend will change over time, hopefully becoming more accurate as newer, fresher, more accurate weather data initializes the weather computers).

Thursday, April 9, 2009

A Springy Intermission

Weather Headlines

* Spring fever reaches epidemic proportions across central & southern Minnesota as temperatures rise into the low 50s.
* "Omega Block" pattern in the jet stream (storms on either coast, high pressure sandwiched in-between over the Northern Plains) will keep us dry and seasonably mild into much of next week.
* Storm track to remain south of Minnesota for the next week or more, only a slight chance of a shower or sprinkle Easter Sunday/Monday.
* More of a southerly wind component Saturday, 60 not impossible from Maple Grove to Cottage Grove.
* Saturday appears to be the nicer, sunnier day of the weekend; probably dry for Easter Sunday services, but more clouds likely on Easter.


Tonight: Mostly clear and cool. Low: 32

Good Friday: Plenty of sun, seasonably mild. Winds: NE 5-10. High: 54

Saturday: Nicer day of the weekend. Mostly-blue sky, milder. Winds: SE 5-15. High: near 60

Easter Sunday: Clouds increase, slight chance of a PM shower/sprinkle, especially west toward Alexandria, Willmar and Detroit Lakes. High: 54

Monday: Unsettled, gray - a spotty shower or two (most rain stays to our south). High: 53

Tuesday: Getting sunnier and nicer again. High: 55

Wednesday: Sunny start, then increasing clouds. high: 56

Thursday: Growing chance of showers, even some steadier rain. High: 54

Friday: Windy and cooler with precipitation tapering to sprinkles. High: near 50

Saturday: Cool, unsettled, a few showers/sprinkles. High: 48

Sunday: Nicer, milder, better day - sun reappears. High: 54

Monday: Blend of clouds and sun, springy again. High: 61

Tuesday (April 21): Showers, possible thunder. High: 57

Wednesday: Leftover clouds, cooler. High: 52

Thursday: Partly sunny. High: 54

(reminder/disclaimer: anything more than a 4-5 day outlook is more of a "trend" than a forecast, especially during spring and fall, when weather systems move rapidly and skies can change dramatically. Computer models update twice daily and the long-range weather trend will change over time, hopefully becoming more accurate as newer, fresher, more accurate weather data initializes the weather computers).

Status Quo - Looking Good!

Headlines for the Twin Cities

* Wren sightings in Mendota Heights - another sure sign that spring really IS here!
* Ice coming off Lake Minnetonka - about 4-5 days earlier than average.
* No significant rain (or snow/ice) in sight for the next 7-8 days.
* Weekend temperatures reach the mid 50s, a few degrees ABOVE average. 60 isn't out of the question close to home.
* Slight chance of rain by the end of next week.
* Rivers slowly receding across most of MN, but flood threat remains very high in the Red River Valley.


Paul's Forecast

This afternoon: Generous sun, a definite case of spring fever by late afternoon! Winds: N 5-15. High: near 50

Tonight: Clear, star-studded skies. Low: 34

Friday: Still sunny, still quiet. High: 53

Saturday: A few high cirrus clouds, otherwise sunny and pleasant. High: 56

Sunday: Sun dimmed by a veil of high clouds, hints of spring in the air. High: 58

Monday: Patchy clouds, dry weather hangs on. High: 54

Tuesday: Partly cloudy, still quiet. High: 55

Wednesday: Sunny start, then increasing clouds. High: 53

Thursday: Mostly cloudy, growing chance of showers. High: 55

Friday: Better chance of rain, some heavy. High: 57

Saturday: Milder with showers, even a few thunderstorms. High: 62

Sunday: Drier, possibly the better day of the weekend for outdoor activities. High: 60

Monday: A mix of clouds and sun, pleasant. High: 57

Tuesday: Showery rains, possible thunder. High: 55

Wednesday: Sun should reappear, temperatures close to average. High: 54

Thursday: Sun fades, temperatures mellow a bit. High: 59

Friday: More showers, thunder can't be ruled out. High: 55

(remember, accuracy drops off gradually after 3-5 days. Anything longer than 5 days is more of a "trend" than a forecast. The forecast can change as new, more accurate data arrives, so check back often to get the latest information for an event scheduled beyond 3-5 days).

Paul's Latest Twin Cities Forecast

Headlines for the Twin Cities

* Wren sightings in Mendota Heights - another sure sign that spring really IS here!
* Ice coming off Lake Minnetonka - about 4-5 days earlier than average.
* No significant rain (or snow/ice) in sight for the next 7-8 days.
* Weekend temperatures reach the mid 50s, a few degrees ABOVE average. 60 isn't out of the question close to home.
* Slight chance of rain by the end of next week.
* Rivers slowly receding across central MN, but flood threat remains very high in the Red River Valley.


Paul's Forecast

Today: Generous sun, a definite case of spring fever by afternoon. Winds: N 5-15. High: near 50

Tonight: Clear, star-studded skies. Low: 34

Friday: Still sunny, still quiet. High: 53

Saturday: A few high cirrus clouds, otherwise sunny and pleasant. High: 56

Sunday: Sun dimmed by a veil of high clouds, hints of spring in the air. High: 58

Monday: Patchy clouds, dry weather hangs on. High: 54

Tuesday: Partly cloudy, still quiet. High: 55

Wednesday: Sunny start, then increasing clouds. High: 53

Thursday: Mostly cloudy, growing chance of showers. High: 55

Friday: Better chance of rain, some heavy. High: 57

Saturday: Milder with showers, even a few thunderstorms. High: 62

Sunday: Drier, possibly the better day of the weekend for outdoor activities. High: 60

Monday: A mix of clouds and sun, pleasant. High: 57

Tuesday: Showery rains, possible thunder. High: 55

Wednesday: Sun should reappear, temperatures close to average. High: 54

Thursday: Sun fades, temperatures mellow a bit. High: 59

Friday: More showers, thunder can't be ruled out. High: 55

(remember, accuracy drops off gradually after 3-5 days. Anything longer than 5 days is more of a "trend" than a forecast. The forecast can change as new, more accurate data arrives, so check back often to get the latest information for an event scheduled beyond 3-5 days).

Wednesday, April 8, 2009

Paul's Latest Twin Cities Forecast

Headlines for the Twin Cities

* No significant rain (or snow/ice) in sight for the next 8 days.
* Weekend temperatures reach the mid 50s, a few degrees ABOVE average. 60 isn't out of the question close to home.
* Slight chance of rain by the end of next week.
* Rivers slowly receding across central MN, but flood threat remains very high in the Red River Valley.


Paul's Forecast

Tonight: Clear to partly cloudy, seasonably cool. Low: 28

Thursday: Generous sun, not bad at all! Winds: N 5-15. High: near 50

Friday: Still sunny, still quiet. High: 53

Saturday: A few high cirrus clouds, otherwise sunny and pleasant. High: 56

Sunday: Sun dimmed by a veil of high clouds, hints of spring in the air. High: 58

Monday: Patchy clouds, dry weather hangs on. High: 54

Tuesday: Partly cloudy, still quiet. High: 55

Wednesday: Sunny start, then increasing clouds. High: 53

Thursday: Mostly cloudy, growing chance of showers. High: 55

Friday: Better chance of rain, some heavy. High: 57

Saturday: Milder with showers, even a few thunderstorms. High: 62

Sunday: Drier, possibly the better day of the weekend for outdoor activities. High: 60

Monday: A mix of clouds and sun, pleasant. High: 57

Tuesday: Showery rains, possible thunder. High: 55

Wednesday: Sun should reappear, temperatures close to average. High: 54

Thursday: Sun fades, temperatures mellow a bit. High: 59

(remember, accuracy drops off gradually after 3-5 days. Anything longer than 5 days is more of a "trend" than a forecast. The forecast can change as new, more accurate data arrives, so check back often to get the latest information for an event scheduled beyond 3-5 days).

Paul's Latest Twin Cities Forecast

Paul's Latest Twin Cities Forecast

Paul's 15 Day Outlook for the Twin Cities


Today: Increasing sunshine with a light breeze. Fairly pleasant for early April. Winds: NW 10-20. High: 47


Tonight: Partly cloudy, not quite as chilly as recent nights. Low: 31


Thursday: Sunshine returns, milder. High: 51


Friday: Plenty of sun, definite hints of spring! High: 53


Saturday: A beautiful spring day. Sun dimmed by high clouds. High: 55


Sunday: Partly cloudy, breezy, pleasant. High: 56


Monday: More clouds, probably dry (moisture stays south of us). High: 49


Tuesday: More clouds than sun. High: 50


Wednesday: Lot's of sunshine, milder. High: 57


Thursday: Periods of rain, especially later in the day. High: near 50


Friday: Showery rains, gusty. High: 52


Saturday: Intervals of sunshine, finally feels like spring! High: 62


Sunday: Cooler with light rain moving in. High: 53


Monday: More rain, unsettled & damp. High: 51


Tuesday: Leftover shower or sprinkle. High: 53


* Disclaimer: accuracy drops off rapidly after 3-5 days. Anything beyond 5 days is more of a "trend" than a "forecast". Check back often for updates, because there's a high probability the extended trend for the Twin Cities will change with time (2 new GFS updates every day).

Paul's Latest Twin Cities Forecast

Paul's 15 Day Outlook for the Twin Cities


Today: Partly to mostly cloudy, a passing sprinkle or flurry can't be ruled out. Winds: NW 10-20. High: 45


Tonight: Leftover clouds, not quite as chilly as recent nights. Low: 31


Thursday: Sunshine returns, milder. High: 51


Friday: Plenty of sun, definite hints of spring! High: 53


Saturday: A beautiful spring day. Sun dimmed by high clouds. High: 55


Sunday: Partly cloudy, breezy, pleasant. High: 56


Monday: More clouds, probably dry (moisture stays south of us). High: 49


Tuesday: More clouds than sun. High: 50


Wednesday: Lot's of sunshine, milder. High: 57


Thursday: Periods of rain, especially later in the day. High: near 50


Friday: Showery rains, gusty. High: 52


Saturday: Intervals of sunshine, finally feels like spring! High: 62


Sunday: Cooler with light rain moving in. High: 53


Monday: More rain, unsettled & damp. High: 51


Tuesday: Leftover shower or sprinkle. High: 53


* Disclaimer: accuracy drops off rapidly after 3-5 days. Anything beyond 5 days is more of a "trend" than a "forecast". Check back often for updates, because there's a high probability the extended trend for the Twin Cities will change with time (2 new GFS updates every day).






Sunday, April 5, 2009

Paul's Latest Twin Cities Forecast

April 5, 2009

Tonight: Cloudy and relatively mild with a few light showers & sprinkles. Low: 41

Saturday: Nicer day of the weekend! Sunny peeks, breezy, quite mild. Winds: SE 10-15. High: 56

Sunday: Cloudy with showers moving in by PM hours. Heavier rain Sunday night. High: 54

Monday: Showers, possible thunderstorms, windy & wet. High: 58

Tuesday: Gusty, turning cooler with sprinkles (flurries north, wet snow Red River Valley). High: 45

Wednesday: Partly sunny, chilly again. High: 39

Thursday: Fading sun as high clouds increase. High: 44

Friday: Milder again with more clouds than sun. High: near 50

Saturday: blah blah blah

Sunday: more blah blah blah

April 14: ditto

April 15; more ditto

April 16; chance of confusion

April 17: getting dark by late evening

April 18: sun rises at dawn. That I can guarantee (I think).

April 19: More like spring (God help us....)

Paul's Latest Twin Cities Forecast

Paul's Latest Twin Cities Forecast

Tonight: Cloudy and relatively mild with a few light showers & sprinkles. Low: 41

Saturday: Nicer day of the weekend! Sunny peeks, breezy, quite mild. Winds: SE 10-15. High: 56

Sunday: Cloudy with showers moving in by PM hours. Heavier rain Sunday night. High: 54

Monday: Showers, possible thunderstorms, windy & wet. High: 58

Tuesday: Gusty, turning cooler with sprinkles (flurries north, wet snow Red River Valley). High: 45

Wednesday: Partly sunny, chilly again. High: 39

Thursday: Fading sun as high clouds increase. High: 44

Friday: Milder again with more clouds than sun. High: near 50

Saturday: blah blah blah

Sunday: more blah blah blah

April 14: ditto

April 15; more ditto

April 16; chance of confusion

April 17: getting dark by late evening

April 18: sun rises at dawn. That I can guarantee (I think).

April 19: More like spring (God help us....)

Paul's Latest Twin Cities Forecast

Paul's Latest Twin Cities Forecast

Tonight: Cloudy and relatively mild with a few light showers & sprinkles. Low: 41

Saturday: Nicer day of the weekend! Sunny peeks, breezy, quite mild. Winds: SE 10-15. High: 56

Sunday: Cloudy with showers moving in by PM hours. Heavier rain Sunday night. High: 54

Monday: Showers, possible thunderstorms, windy & wet. High: 58

Tuesday: Gusty, turning cooler with sprinkles (flurries north, wet snow Red River Valley). High: 45

Wednesday: Partly sunny, chilly again. High: 39

Thursday: Fading sun as high clouds increase. High: 44

Friday: Milder again with more clouds than sun. High: near 50

Saturday: blah blah blah

Sunday: more blah blah blah

April 14: ditto

April 15; more ditto

April 16; chance of confusion

April 17: getting dark by late evening

April 18: sun rises at dawn. That I can guarantee (I think).

April 19: More like spring (God help us....)