Warmest weekend in 5 months ahead: 70s likely
It's been 5 months since Minnesotans basked in a sunny weekend with temperatures in the 70s. Chances are growing we'll do it again this weekend. Yes weather fans, spring has finally sprung in Minnesota.
The weather maps look increasingly favorable for the warmest weekend since early November. Abundant sunshine and a mild southerly flow combine to boost temps higher this weekend. Temperatures push 70+ degrees across a good chunk of Minnesota this weekend.
Southerly flow
Temperatures in Minnesota are usually about wind direction. Combine an ever higher spring sun angle, bare ground and a southerly wind flow and what do you get? The perfect weather pattern for May-like warmth.
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NOAA's GFS model brings south winds and a stream of red dashed lines indicating warmer air moving north into Minnesota this weekend.
Showers favor northwest Minnesota Sunday, but may hold off in the Twin Cities until Sunday night.
Models catching up
Numerical weather models are often challenged to keep up with weather patterns that deviate from climatological norms and approach extremes. We stay seasonably cool with 50s the next two days. NOAA's NDFD numbers are moving higher, and estimate temps approaching 70 this weekend in the Twin Cities.
NOAA's GFS model and the Euro have grabbed hold of temps into the 70s this weekend at MSP.
Trending dry
So far this spring is trending dry across Minnesota. The Twin Cities observed just .68" precip in March. That's 1.21" below average.
Know your safe place
I know my happy place. Severe weather will return this spring. Do you know your "safe place?"
Severe weather spotters wanted
The Twin Cities NWS continues to offer spotter training classes. If you're interested they are well worth the time and effort.
Weather Research and Forecasting Innovation Act of 2017
I'm seeing mostly positive reaction to this latest efforts by congress to improve weather forecast in the two week to two year range.