Its been a relatively “tame” winter in regards to any big storms. It’s been a colder than normal winter and precip below normal as well. So, now we look into spring and what the LRC is forecasting. Let’s break it down month by month.
MARCH: Overall March looks to be a month with temps remaining at or above normal across the area with a few “spikes” in precip after the middle of the month:
Now the AO has played havoc this year with the LRC. Currently the AO is in a positive phase which keeps the “coldest” air up north and at times doesn’t allow these storms to energize themselves to full capacity. The LRC is really focusing on the time frame after the 19th of the month. Our other models that we use are also focusing on 2-3 storms affecting the area mid month to the end of the month. Total precip from the LRC for March should be 1-2″
APRIL: This should be a fun month with the storm systems that are currently tracking to our south this week (blizzard in the Central Plains) should move northward in April and that would put our area in more of a “target zone” Here’s a look at what the LRC is thinking:
A few precip spikes are expected the first week in April then again from the 15th through the 22nd with total precip expected to be around 1-2″ for the month, however, if one of those storms are a bit stronger (AO is neutral or slightly negative) those precip amounts could be higher. I’m a bit concerned about the mid month storm being a strong one with snow/wind for parts of the state. In regards to additional SNOW for the area, I’m expecting an additional 5-15″ of snowfall between March/April.
MAY: May looks to be a WET month, especially early with drier conditions mid month onward
According to the LRC, that first week of May will hold a majority of the rainfall with another spike around mid month. Total rainfall around 3-4″ expected.
Now, what about our “last freeze” for our area? It appears our last freeze should be right around April 20th with some frost potential in May but that should be confined to the northern part of the state.
Good news for our AG community is that we should be fine with moisture going into the spring months. All of these forecasts are for the Cass/Clay co. area. If you have any questions, please reach out to me at weather@flagfamily.com
