April continues to set temperature and phenology records

Preliminary data indicated April began by setting two new state temperature records: 90 degrees F at Luverne on the 1st; and 88 degrees F at Pipestone on the 2nd. In addition a Maplewood phenology observer reported seeing dandelions on April 2nd, one of the earliest dates ever.

Lake ice-out dates this spring have set new records for earliness all around the state. A summary of this can be found at the DNR set site. Despite the temperature and phenology records frost is a definite part of the weather mix for early next week and red flag warnings may continue for parts of the state due to low humidity, strong winds, and risk of fire danger.

A few good April showers would be welcome before farmers begin planting the state's corn crop on April 11th (the activation date for crop insurance). You can read more weather analysis in MInnesota WeatherTalk Newsletter this week. Keep the sweaters, sweatshirts and jackets handy for the Easter weekend.

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