Farewell to Patrick Hammer

One of our favorite forecasters is leaving for greener... err uh, whiter pastures. We've known Patrick Hammer as a true stand-up guy who isn't afraid to take a strong position in forecasts. He's also been a frequent video contributor to The Minnesota Forecaster, helping to provide colorful commentary on Twin Cities weather events.

Patrick is leaving for Buffalo. You can find the details in the Buffalo press as well as in the Star Tribune. We wish him well!

Spring and Storms?

With a forecast of 70 on April 1, there was hope that maybe, just maybe, spring was ready to take up some quality residence. Thunderstorm chances were also in the forecast, so there might be a little rockin' and rollin' on the horizon.

Is Early March Snow Winter's Last Hurrah?

Some meteorologists were talking as if Tuesday could be the end of winter as we know it. We shall see. In the meantime, as of late this Monday evening, here's what we found for Tuesday forecast snow totals on Tuesday from a range of outlets.

WCCO: 2-5"
KSTP: 3-5
KMSP: 3-5"
KARE: 2-4:
NWS: 2-3"
Star Tribune: 2-4"
MPR: Showed models depicting 2-4"
Novak Weather: 3"

Searching For White Down Winter's Home Stretch

Maybe they’re all like this, but the winter of 2014-2015 seems especially odd. In Minnesota, a frigid November gave way to a most mild December. And January’s been a mixed helping as well, though a warm bias has been the prevailing characteristic. However, one constant has been the lack of significant snow and the lack of consistently stellar, recreational-friendly snow cover.

As meteorological winter entered it’s final third, snow lovers were looking far and wide for signs of the precipitation type they live for. Others were thrilled at the prospect of a winter that, while still challenging by most state’s standards, was proceeding in a tolerable fashion.

(And then there was your fearless host, who wonders if California will ever again see rain.)

Enjoy the hunt for a white February!