Arctic Blast on the Way, NOAA Updates Winter Outlook

It now looks like we're in for for what the National Weather Service is calling a 'cold air outbreak' to kick off December. In fact, we could be in for single-digit lows and below-zero wind chills as soon as Black Friday.

It appears that we're in for below average temperatures through at least the middle of December.

This is also one of the biggest travel times of the year, with highways and airports jammed with Thanksgiving travelers across Minnesota and the U.S.

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The cold air outbreak is likely to be particularly impactful across the northern plains where a moderate risk of dangerous cold is possible. Minimum temperatures may fall as low as -10 in some areas, with dangerously cold wind chills also possible.

NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric  Administration) has also updates its three month climate outlook for December, January, and February. The updated outlook is calling for temperatures to be near normal to somewhat below normal through February.

The updated outlook for NOAA also now call for winter precipitation in Minnesota to be above normal for most of the state. Combine that with the colder temps, and it sounds like most of that precipitation could be snow.

By the way, most of the seasonal almanacs are calling for a colder and snowier winter for Minnesota. Snowmobilers and skiers are hoping for a snowy season, while fishermen hope its a cold one to thicken that lake ice.

Owatonna Ten Day Forecast for The Weather Channel

As of now, snow doesn't appear as though it will be causing any travel problems across southern Minnesota for the Thanksgiving holiday. Bundle up, travel safe, and have fun.