Close to home, there's no imminent danger of massive wildfires, floods, heat waves, earthquakes or volcanic eruptions. I'm grateful for small favors. A little heat and humidity returning? Yes. But compared to much of the planet, Minnesota has gotten off easy this year — with the possible exception of that pesky mid-April blizzard. Let's see how long our luck holds out.
Anchorage climate scientist Brian Brettschneider calculates the Twin Cities enjoy an average of 46 "nice days" every year (warm and dry with light winds). That compares with 39 nice days in New York City, 68 in Las Vegas and 182 in Los Angeles. And yes, this is subjective. Many would argue that 30F, blue sky and fresh snow is the definition of "nice weather."
Thunder-wear remains optional into the weekend as a weak bubble of high pressure stalls over the Midwest. In fact I don't see any rain until a slight thunder risk next Tuesday. Enjoy upper 80s to near 90, because models are hinting at a real cool front Aug. 18-19, with highs in the 60s and 70s.
