Minneapolis, Minnesota – Winter appears far from finished across Minnesota as Groundhog Day tradition lines up with long-range climate signals pointing to a delayed transition into spring. Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow Monday morning, signaling six more weeks of winter and pushing expectations for a sustained warm-up closer to mid-March.
According to the National Weather Service, Minnesota is placed in an “equal chances” category for temperatures from February through April. That outlook keeps the risk of late-season cold snaps, prolonged snow cover, and sharp temperature swings firmly in place. The Twin Cities, St. Cloud, and Rochester could see repeated winter systems through March, while northern Minnesota and the Arrowhead remain vulnerable to extended cold and accumulating snow well into early spring.
Precipitation is expected to be a major factor. According to NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center, Minnesota is favored for above-normal precipitation during that period. That raises the likelihood of heavier snow events during colder stretches and rain or mixed precipitation during brief thaws, increasing concerns for slick travel on I-94, I-35, and Highway 52, along with river rises as snowmelt combines with spring rain.
While the Farmers’ Almanac notes spring officially begins Friday, March 20, and highlights a total lunar eclipse early Tuesday, March 3, winter impacts may persist beyond those milestones. Minnesotans are encouraged to stay prepared, monitor local advisories, and expect winter hazards to remain part of daily life into early spring, with additional alerts possible as conditions evolve.
