Forecast: Soaking rain possible this weekend
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NOAA 4-5 day precipitation outlook shows rainfall chances increasing this weekend.
The timing could be better, but at this point we'll take it.
A slow moving low pressure system appears to be headed for Minnesota this weekend. The chances for much needed widespread soaking rains are increasing starting on Saturday.
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While it is still too early to pinpoint timing and rainfall amounts, at this point it appears Saturday holds the best chance of a good soaking. If the system develops as the forecast models are hinting at today, there could be many amounts over half an inch, and weekend totals over an inch are possible.
The Twin Cities is still in moderate to severe drought this week. Precipitation since last May is running over 10 inches below average. June is our wettest month on average, with 4.34" of rainfall in an average June. While a good soaking inch or more of rain would not end the drought, it would go a long way toward easing some of the short term effects.
There are indications that a second low pressure wave could follow Saturday's system. This could bring another round of rain late Sunday or Monday.
The timing would be excellent for Minnesota farmers. Crops are in and generally in good condition according to this week's crop report. A good soaking rain now would help to boost growth into the early part of the growing season. Many locations in central Minnesota have rainfall deficits exceeding 3 inches since April 1st.
Of course there's that old saying, "there really is no bad weather, just different kinds of good weather." I'll try to remember that this weekend as our 13 year old baseball team heads to a big tournament in Bloomington. A drought is great for getting in baseball games, and we've had excellent baseball weather all spring. I suppose we're due for a rainout, but maybe we can still get the rain and sneak in the games too.
At this point my lawn, our lakes, and the farmers will take the rain any time we can get it,
In the mean time enjoy another stretch of bright sunny weather as we head toward the weekend.
PH