Feeling fully autumn, then snowflakes mixing with falling leaves
A chilly rain kept the temperatures in the 40s in northern and central Minnesota, while sunshine helped boast the mercury to near 60 in the Twin Cities. At 3 p.m., temperatures ranged from 41 in Bemidji to 61 in Fairmont.
At mid-afternoon, the band of rain was just encroaching on the northwest fringe of the Twin Cities Metro area.
Precipitation will continue to spread east this evening and push into Wisconsin by later tonight. A pause in a steady rain is expected on Friday. Light showers are likely to return on Saturday.
The forecast is still a work in progress for predicting a cold rain and wet snow to develop on Sunday in the eastern Dakotas and spread east. Currently, the best chance for some accumulating snow is from St. Cloud north on Sunday evening.
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Stay tuned for the projected path of the surface low and precipitation forecast for Sunday.
Recent bouts of precipitation have reduced the moisture deficient in the state. Regions considered in moderate drought continue to shrink.
Drought status just a week ago was more expansive.
NOAA's Climate Prediction Center released a new three month outlook today for November through January. For the Upper Midwest there are equal odds of above or below normal temperatures.
The 90 day precipitation forecast through January also indicates equal chances of above or below normal.
The State Department of Natural Resources reports colors are peaking in central Minnesota. You may wish to head toward LaCrosse to enjoy the autumn colors this weekend.