Retired University of Minnesota meteorologist Mark Seeley discusses a number of topics with MPR News host Cathy Wurzer, including the large amount of rain we've been getting this month.
First, there were spring-like temperatures. Then, there was thunder-sleet, rain, snow, hail, graupel, you name it — with some Texas dust for good measure.
According to retired University of Minnesota meteorologist and climatologist Mark Seeley, a prolonged dry spell and frequent freezing temperatures at night have helped keep many rivers at manageable levels.
MPR News host Cathy Wurzer checked in with retired University of Minnesota climatologist and meteorologist Mark Seeley for an update on the spring flood outlook.
With spring officially in the door, attention in Minnesota is shifting from the snow situation to a rising flood threat along many rivers, particularly in the southern part of the state.
A wide swath of Minnesota is in line for anywhere from 8 to 11 inches of heavy, wet snow. Northern Minnesota could see anywhere from just 4 inches (yes, we've reached the point where 4 inches is considered a small snowfall) to 9 inches.
According to retired University of Minnesota meteorologist and climatologist Mark Seeley, Owatonna saw 52.5 inches of snow, beating the previous February record of 51 inches set in 1939.
The National Weather Service in the Twin Cities has issued its initial spring flood outlook for the Minnesota, Upper Mississippi, and western Wisconsin river basins, showing a higher than usual flood potential.