Prolific April snowfall totals up north; 60s likely late next week

Well that was interesting.

Our massive, slowly moving two-day slop storm delivered some blockbuster snowfall totals across central and northern Minnesota with a foot or more recorded at several locations in the past 72 hours. More than 15 inches was recorded in Hovland and just north for Fergus Falls!

Here’s a list of the top snowfall totals around parts of Minnesota:

Here are additional select snowfall totals, in inches, around Minnesota:

• Twin Cities, 2 to 3.5

• Milan, St. Cloud, Benson, 5 to 8

• Fargo-Moorhead area, 7 to 9-plus

• Brainerd Lakes and Duluth areas, 7 to 9

• North Shore, 12 to 15

• Bagley, Wadena, 10

Check your area’s snowfall totals here.

This was a well-forecast storm for Minnesota. On the map at the top of the post, check out the match on forecast vs. actual snowfall totals in northeastern Minnesota.

Well-placed moisture

We couldn’t have laid out this storm much better for attacking lingering drought across Minnesota. Check out the worst drought areas in Minnesota on Thursday drought monitor update:

Now look at the precipitation distribution from this week’s multiday soaker:

Keep in mind that this week’s precipitation is not factored into Thursday’s drought monitor update given the Tuesday 7 a.m. cutoff. It will be reflected in next week’s update.

Springy next week

We’ll gradually see more sunshine and moderating temperatures the rest of the week. Highs Friday will reach the 50s in the south once again.

Next week starts with wintry breezes Monday, but temperatures will moderate as the week rolls on. By Wednesday highs will reach the 60s south with 50s well north.

I still think we’ll see 60s later next week and maybe 70 degrees in southwestern Minnesota.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s outlooks favor milder, springlike days ahead:

Stay tuned.