By DJ Kayser, filling in for Douglas:
Ready for winter? NOAA apparently is, as the Climate Prediction Center on Thursday released its updated December through February (meteorological winter) forecast. The outlook has odds for above-average precipitation stretching from the Pacific Northwest into the Great Lakes and Ohio River Valley — including most of Minnesota. Chances for above-average precipitation seem highest in the early part of winter for at least the southern two-thirds of the state. Now, it must be noted that this doesn’t necessarily mean snow, and that rain or ice could play a factor.
Many of the same areas, once again including Minnesota, also have odds for below-average temperatures. The highest odds of below-average temperatures for the state will be in the January and February time frame.
No snow on the horizon anytime soon. We could see some late-day and evening showers Saturday. Otherwise, most of the rest of your MEA weekend should be dry. Highs will be in the 50s and 60s through next week. A widespread frost or freeze is likely Wednesday morning.
