Our first measurable snowfall could be just hours away. We've seen bigger Halloween snowfalls (have we ever!) but it's still not welcome for trick-or-treaters, or morning commuters.
WCCO Radio Chief Meteorologist Paul Douglas says it'll arrive Monday night and into early Tuesday morning. That means it could potentially cause some issues on the drive into work.
It's not that much snow, but the first time of the year, in October, tends to lead to issues on the road according to Douglas.
"There's always a steep learning curve, the first snow of the season," says Douglas. "The first snow of the season people tend to collectively lose their minds."
Temperatures will be well below freezing by the morning so Douglas says it will be plenty cold and won't be melting right away. Douglas says it is a traditional Alberta Clipper, which he says can be notoriously difficult to predict.
"I think it's going to be at least an inch, a few spots could get two," says Douglas. "And yes it's going to stick and yes it's going to look like a winter wonderland. Leave extra time tomorrow morning."
It actually doesn't snow very often at all around Halloween in Minnesota making this bout a little rare. Since 1872 there's been enough snow to measure only six times according to the Minnesota DNR.
0.6 in 1884; 0.2 in 1885; 1.4 in 1932; 0.4 in 1954; 0.5 in 1995; and of course 8.2 inches, with the opening round of the Halloween Blizzard in 1991. The last time we even had flurries in the area was 2009 (none measured at MSP Airport however). That means it's been 28 years since we've had measurable snow on 10/31.
Douglas says once the snow stops, blustery conditions will continue through the rest of Halloween. And that will make for a chilly night for trick-or-treaters.
As for timing, it should come in after dinner-time says Douglas. The good news is the snow tapers off by lunch time and while it will be cold, it should be dry for any kids heading out for candy. It will feel like the low-20s thanks to a brisk wind and a wind chill.
"Wednesday the winds finally die down, and by the end of the week it's going to be back in the 40s. Warm enough for rain as early as Friday. I see off-and-on rain right into next week," Douglas says.
But for the next 24-36 hours, it's going to be wintery. Bundle up.
FORECAST
Monday: Snow later. High 36.
Tuesday: Slushy inch for the rush hour. Feels like 15-20 with gusty wind. High 35, low 27.
Wednesday: Partly sunny, less drama. High 39, low 27
Thursday: Not as cold with a little sun. High 42, low 28.
Friday: Cloudy, possibly light rain late. High 44, low 32.