with Meteorologist Mitch Keegan

 

Catch my forecast with TJ & Lisa weekday AM's
And I chat LIVE Monday & Friday around 6:30!

 

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Friday, November 20, 2009

 

After one day of cloudy skies and a little bit of light rain, we're back to seeing the sunshine and temperatures above average.  High pressure is building back in, so that means quiet conditions for today and tomorrow, with mostly sunny skies and highs in the lower to middle 50s. 

 

Saturday will be a little breezy, with south winds gusting up to 20 to 30 mph.  That will help highs reach the middle to upper 50s.  Then, we get ready for some changes.

 

A low pressure system moving out of the Pacific Northwest will bring the chance for some rain on Sunday and Monday.  Sunday still looks mild, with a high around 50.  By Monday, we'll be in the middle to upper 40s with the chance for some rain again.  Then by Tuesday, as colder air starts to move in, some snow will start to mix in with the rain.  Then the chance for light snow will continue on Wednesday.  We're not looking for any major snowfall accumulation.  

 

Thanksgiving day will be quiet, with highs in the 30s.  Temperatures stay much closer to average right through next weekend.

 

Weather or Not, I'm Meteorologist Mitch Keegan
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Thursday, November 19, 2009

 

We're seeing some spotty showers this morning and that chance lingers into the afternoon.  Otherwise we'll see clouds and some drizzle today as that slow moving low pressure system is now impacting our weather.  Highs will be in the middle to upper 60s today.  After one day of some rain and clouds, we'll see more sunshine.

 

High pressure will build back in for Friday and Saturday, bringing mostly sunny skies and highs in the lower 50s.  Unfortunately, the sunshine won't stick around for long, as another storm system moves in.

 

We'll see the chance for rain showers on Sunday and Monday and then as cooler air starts to filter into the storm system, some snow will mix in.  Okay, don't panic, we're just talking about a few snowflakes, nothing major.  Some snow showers may linger on Tuesday.  High temperatures next week cool closer to average for this time of the year, into the middle 30s.

 

The 10-Day Trend keeps it cool into the start of the last weekend of November.  We could see some flurries on Thanksgiving Day, but it's not looking like much more than that.

 

Weather or Not, I'm Meteorologist Mitch Keegan
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Wednesday, November 18, 2009

 

That slow moving low pressure system we've been talking about all week is going to start to have an impact on our weather.  We start the day with some sunshine, but clouds will build in as the low moves to the north-northwest.  Highs today will once again top out in the middle 40s.  By tonight, we'll see the slight chance for some spotty showers, otherwise expect cloudy skies and some drizzle. 

 

We repeat that for Thursday, with cloudy skies, the chance for an isolated shower, otherwise some drizzle and fog will be found.  High temperatures tomorrow will be in the middle 40s as well.

 

By Friday and Saturday, another reenforcing shot of high pressure, with mostly sunny skies and highs around 50.  Another storm system moves in for the second half of the weekend, bringing the chance for some rain and maybe some snow.

 

Temperatures will also cool down with this next storm.  We'll see highs in the middle to upper 40s for Sunday and only around 40 for Monday.  Overnight lows will be around the freezing mark, so some snow may certainly mix in.  No accumulations are anticipated, so don't panic. 

 

But the cool weather does look to stay around through Thanksgiving, with highs in the 30s, which is actually seasonal for this time of the year.

 

Weather or Not, I'm Meteorologist Mitch Keegan
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Tuesday, November 17, 2009

 

High pressure will keep us quiet again today, but the heavy rain and even some snow continues to our south, as a slow moving low pressure system slowly moves back to the north and west.  That low pressure system will start to bring clouds to our sky tonight and by tomorrow and Thursday, some spotty showers and drizzle will be with us.

 

High temperatures today will be in the upper 40s, after starting out in the 20s, with some spots even dipping into the teens.  Clouds increase tonight with a low of 28. 

 

As I mentioned above, look for mostly cloudy skies on Wednesday and Thursday, with the chance for some drizzle and spotty showers as that low pressure system gets a little closer.  It is weakening, so that's why we're not expecting much rain from it.  In fact, by Friday, we'll see partly sunny skies and by Saturday, we'll see mostly sunny skies.

 

Another storm system, a much more potetent looking storm, will move in for the second half of the weekend and into the start of next week.  Temperatures do look to cool down as we head into next week, but they'll cool to seasonal levels for this time of the year.  You can see more into next week with the 10-Day Trend.  And as a bonus, day 11, the day after Thanksgiving, looks dry with highs in the 30s.

 

Weather or Not, I'm Meteorologist Mitch Keegan
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Monday, November 16--Midday Update

 

The Leonid Meteor Shower is tonight.  With a clear sky in the forecast, viewing should be great, if you can make it out of bed that early in the morning.  Temperatures will be in the 20s, so you'll definately want to dress warm!  The moon won't cause any problems either, as were in a New Moon phase.  Enjoy!  For the rest of our weather, see my original post from this morning below.

 

Monday, November 16, 2009

 

After a quiet weekend, we'll keep the quiet weather around, with high pressure keeping our skies mostly sunny.  Highs today will be around 50 and expect the same for tomorrow.  But the quiet weather won't stick around for long, as we're expecting a murky mid-week.

 

Last week we talked about a storm system that would meander across the southern US and eventually make its way into the midwest.  Well, that's what has happened.  That low pressure system brought more snow to the Rockies and is bringing rain and snow to our south.  Today, it's bringing rain and clouds to the southern half of Iowa.  It's slowly moving east and north, so by Wednesday and Thursday, we'll see cloudy skies and some rain showers with highs in the lower 40s.

 

Our weather quiets down for Friday and Saturday, before another storm system brings the chance for precipitation to the forecast.  Starting Sunday and into next week, a storm system brings the chance for rain and maybe some snow.  That's something we'll keep an eye on and you can too in the 10-Day Trend.

 

Weather or Not, I'm Meteorologist Mitch Keegan
_____________________________________________________

 

Friday, November 13, 2009

 

We're keeping the clouds around for today and watching the chance for some rain as a cold front moves into the region.  A lot of the moisture with this storm system will go to saturating the air, so the rain isn't expected until later this afternoon and into the evening.  Highs today will be in the lower 50s.  The showers will be around through the overnight hours and we could see an isolated shower early Saturday, otherwise Saturday will be partly to mostly cloudy with highs in the upper 40s.

 

Sunday brings more sunshine with highs around 50.  We'll stay quiet for the start of next week, but that could change and here's why.  A low pressure system is going to be meandering across the southern US.  It's going to be cut-off from the Jet Stream (the upper level winds that move storm systems across the country).  It will slowly make it's way to us as we head into Thursday of next week, bringing the chance for some rain and snow.  Now if this storm speeds up or does get caught into the jet stream, that chance of precip could make it here earlier in the week.  For a look ahead to Thanksgiving, check out my post from yesterday.

 

Today is the last day of Winter Hazard Awareness Week and we're talking about automobile safety.    It's always a good idea to keep at least a half of tank of gas during the winter months.  And it's always a good idea to keep these things in mind when driving:  bridges, overpasses and on and off ramps can be more slippery.  You shouldn't break suddenly.  If you do get stranded or stuck, you should stay in your vehicle.  That reduces your risk of getting frostbite or getting lost.  Run the engine periodically to stay warm.  A winter survival kit is a great idea as well.  You should have extra blankets and extra clothes, some high energy foods, a flash light, jumper cables, snow shovel, first aid kit and a cup, candle and matches that you could use to melt snow for drinking.  An old cell phone could be handy as well.  Any cell phone can dial 911.

 

Weather or Not, I'm Meteorologist Mitch Keegan
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Thursday, November 12, 2009

 

It's a skirt alert day, with winds gusting to 40 mph at times.  We'll see mostly cloudy skies ahead of our next storm system that brings rain to the forecast for tomorrow.  Highs today will top out in the middle to upper 50s.  We cool into the lower 50s for Friday.

 

We could see some decent rainfall amounts, maybe up to half an inch in some locations tomorrow as a low pressure system and cold front move in.  Some showers will stick around for Friday night and as temperatures cool down, some snowflakes may mix in as well. 

 

The upcoming weekend will bring mostly to partly sunny skies and highs in the upper 40s to around 50.  Temperatures look "cooler" as we head into next week.  Cooler than what we've been seeing, but they'll actually be closer to average for this time of the year.

 

A storm system brings a bit of uncertainty to next week, as a storm system has its sites set on the midwest, the timing and exact location are still in question.  Right now, I've put a chance for some rain and snow in late Monday into early Tuesday.  That's something we'll keep an eye on. 

 

Former Hurricane Ida is now causing problems along the east coast.  Strong Winds, heavy rains and high surf.  What was Ida is now a strong low pressure system bringing tropical storm-like conditions.  The high pressure system that was with us over this past weekend and earlier this week is slowing Ida from moving quickly along the coast, so these conditions are expected to linger for a while.

 

So, today is two weeks away from Thanksgiving, so I thought I'd take a look at the long range forecast model.  The east coast is looking wet, as is the Pacific Northwest.  The northern Rockies look to have some snow with some flurries around the Great Lakes.  The southwest looks mild and the middle of the country looks cool.  How cool is still in question.  Can this forecast change?  Absolutely, and I expect it to, but here's just an early look.

 

It's day 4 of Winter Hazard Awareness Week and today's topic is Indoor Air.  Carbon Monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that comes from incomplete the burning of fuels and woods.  If you are exposed to high levels of CO, you can experience flu-like symptoms.  It's a problem in the winter because our homes tend to be more air-tight.  A CO detector is a good idea.  It's never a good idea to use the stove as a way to heat your home.  For more information, click here. 

 

Weather or Not, I'm Meteorologist Mitch Keegan
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Wednesday, November 11, 2009

 

Our temperatures will continue to be above average after setting a record high temperature yesterday.  We reached 63, which broke the old record of 60 set in 1967.  Temperatures will be a few degrees cooler today, in the upper 50s to near 60.  We'll also see a few more clouds, but will see a mostly to partly sunny sky. 

 

A few more clouds will be with us for Thursday, with highs in the middle 50s.  By Friday, the chance for rain returns to the forecast as our next weather maker moves in.  Some isolated showers may still be around very early in the day on Saturday.

 

Otherwise the weekend looks quiet, with highs around 50 and mostly to partly sunny skies.

 

It's day 3 of Winter Hazard Awareness Week.  Today's topic is fire safety.  It's a good idea to turn off your heating appliances, such as space heaters, electric fireplaces, etc.  For more information on today's topic, check out this website.

 

 

Weather History: On this day in 1940, a strong low pressure system moved into the midwest, bringing lots of snow, wind and cold air.  November 11, 1940 brought with it unseasonably high temperatures. By early afternoon temperatures had warmed in lower to middle 60s ^oF over most of the affected region. However, as the day wore on conditions quickly deteriorated. Temperatures dropped sharply, winds picked up, and rain, followd by sleet, then snow began to fall. An intense low pressure system had tracked from the southern plains northeastward into western Wisconsin, pulling Gulf of Mexico moisture up from the south and pulling down a cold arctic air mass from the north. The result was a raging blizzard that would last into the next day. Snowfalls of up to 27 inches, winds of 50 to 80 mph, 20-foot snow drifts, and 50-degree Fahrenheit temperature drops were common over parts of the states of Nebraska, South Dakota, Iowa, Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Michigan.

 

In Minnesota, 27 inches of snow fell at Collegeville, and the Twin Cities recorded 16 inches. Record low pressures were recorded in LaCrosse and Duluth.Transportation and communications were crippled, which exacerbated finding the dead and injured.

 

The Armistice Day Blizzard ranks #2 in Minnesota's list of top-5 weather events of the 20th century.  154 people died in the storm; 49 of those were in Minnesota.

 

Weather or Not, I'm Meteorologist Mitch Keegan
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Tuesday, November 10, 2009

 

Another nice day for today, with highs a good 15 to 20° above average for this time of the year, with highs topping out in the lower 60s and mostly sunny skies.  Our average high for today is 45°.  Expect another clear night with lows in the middle 30s, which is almost 10 degrees above average for overnight lows.

 

We'll cool a few degrees for Wednesday and Thursday, with highs in the middle to upper 50s with partly sunny skies.  It will also be breezy Wednesday and Thursday with winds gusting up to 30 mph.  We stay dry until Friday, when our next storm system moves in.

 

As a cold front pushes into the region, we'll see our chances for rain increase on Friday with highs in the lower 50s.  The upcoming weekend is looking quiet, with mostly to partly sunny skies and highs in the upper 40s to lower 50s, which again, is above average.

 

Tropical Storm Ida made landfall this morning at 5:40 on Dauphin Island, Alabama with winds of 45 mph.  Ida is bringing strong winds, heavy rain and storm surge to Alabama and the Florida panhandle.

 

This is Winter Hazard Awareness Week in Minnesota.  Today's topic is outdoor safety.  Including snowmobile and ice safety, as well as staying warm in the cold.  It's actually best to dress in light-weight, layered, loose fitting clothing.    A hat is key, as most body heat is lost from the top of the head.  And just like the summer, we have to be careful to avoid exhaustion in the winter, especially when it comes to shoveling.  As far as ice safety, here are some recommended guidlines, 4" of ice to walk or fish on; 5" of ice for snowmobiling; 8-12" for a car or small truck and 12-15" for a medium sized truck.  We'll have more information through the week.  You can also find more here. 

 

Weather or Not, I'm Meteorologist Mitch Keegan
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Monday, November 9, 2009

 

The nice weather from the weekend continues into the new week, with high temperatures remaining well above average.  Highs today, tomorrow and Wednesday will be in the upper 50s to around 60.  Our average high temperatures for this week are in the middle to upper 40s. 

 

Along with the mild temperatures we'll see mostly sunny skies.  By Thursday, some more clouds will be with us as we "cool" to the middle 50s.  The dry weather comes to an end on Friday, when we bring the chance for showers back into forecast.

 

The upcoming weekend brings temperatures in the upper 40s, which is yet again, still above average.

 

Last week I mentioned a late season Hurricane off the coast of Latin America.  Ida is still a hurricane and is now in the Gulf of Mexico, with sites set on the Gulf Coast of the United States.  Ida is a category 1 hurricane and is expected to make landfall overnight tonight or early tomorrow morning somewhere along the Alabama coast.  The storm will then move across the Florida panhandle, bringing lots of rain, storm surge and strong winds. 

 

While it's not going to feel like it, winter is right around the corner.  This is Winter Hazard Awareness Week.  Today's topic is just an overview of winter weather terms, including the difference between a winter storm watch and a winter storm warning, terms you'll hear quite frequently this winter.  It also talks about what a Blizzard Warning is and the criteria for it.  We'll have more information through the week.  You can also find more here. 

 

Weather or Not, I'm Meteorologist Mitch Keegan
_____________________________________________________

 

Friday, November 6, 2009

 

Well, its the first Friday in November and it's hard to believe we're talking about highs in the 60s for today and for tomorrow.  That's well above average, with our average high being in the upper 40s. 

 

With the passage of a cold front, which is really just going to switch our wind direction around to the northwest, on Sunday, we'll see highs in the upper 50s.  A storm system will bring the chance for some rain on Monday with a high in the lower 50s.

 

Our temperatures stay above average as we head into the middle part of next week, with highs staying in the lower to middle 50s for Tuesday and Wednesday.  By Thursday, we'll cool into the upper 40s and bring back the chance for some rain.  But by Thursday, the average high is 45, so even 48 is above average.

 

We all remember October as being a cool and rainy month.  So far, November hasn't been bad, with 4 days (of 6) being 50° or warmer.  We've had 1 day of 60s already in November and if you count today and tomorrow, that beats October! 

 

Weather or Not, I'm Meteorologist Mitch Keegan
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Thursday, November 5, 2009

 

We'll see a lot more sunshine today than we did yesterday, thanks to high pressure.  Highs will go above average today and stay above average right through the middle part of next week.  The average high for today is 50.  Next week, the average highs dip into the middle to upper 40s.

 

Highs today will reach the middle to upper 50s with mostly sunny skies.  Tonight, some clouds will move in and act like a blanket, keeping our overnight lows in the upper 30s to near 40 tonight.  Those clouds will be around for Friday morning. 

 

We'll reach near 60 for Friday and for Saturday.  Friday does start with some clouds, but those will decrease through the day.  We'll stay dry through the weekend as well, so it'll certainly be a nice fall weekend. 

 

Our next chance of rain comes in late Sunday, with better chances Monday.  We stay in the lower 50s through Wednesday of next week.

 

The Atlantic Basin Hurricane season ended on November 1, but a late season storm has developed in the Carribean.  It's something we'll watch, because if it holds together, some of that moisture could influence our weather later on down the road.

 

Weather or Not, I'm Meteorologist Mitch Keegan
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Wednesday, November 4, 2009

 

I'm back after a week of being gone following the passing of my grandfather.  Thanks to Nathan Harrington for taking care of things around here for me while I was away. 

 

We fell back an hour, it's still odd to see the sun go down so early now.  Sunset tonight is at 5:01.  Speaking of the sun, how about a nice stretch of dry weather, from today right through the weekend. 

 

Highs today will be in the lower to middle 40s.  It will be breezy, with northwest winds gusting up to 30 mph.  We'll warm into the 50s for Thursday and then near 60 for Friday and the weekend.  Highs on Friday and Saturday will be a good 10 degrees above average... not too shabby for November!

 

The rain holds off until next week, with the chance for rain on Monday and Tuesday and then again later next week into the weekend as you can see above in the 10-Day Trend.

 

Today we welcome Lisa Cownie to News 12 Morning and Midday.  We'll miss Rosie as she heads to New York.  In fact, it was always a running joke that Rosie was my work wife.  Ironically, Kya said the same thing, as Rosie kept me in line at work and Kya all the other times!  Welcome Lisa, who if you remember, used to anchor our 10:00 news in the mid 1990s.   

 

Weather or Not, I'm Meteorologist Mitch Keegan
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Tuesday, October 27, 2009

 

Clouds will build in as we head into the afternoon, head of our next storm that is moving in out of the Pacific Northwest.  It will bring showers, maybe even some storms and even the chance for some snowflakes.

 

Highs today will reach the middle 50s, but as we move through the afternoon, we'll be watching clouds build in.  It will be breezy today, with southerly winds gusting up to 30 mph.  Mostly cloudy tonight with a low of 38.

 

We'll see the clouds stick around for Wednesday with a high of 53.  Then for Thursday and Friday, showers will be with us and there is the chance for a few thunderstorms as well.  High temperatures will remain in the middle 50s.

 

For Halloween on Saturday, highs will be in the lower 40s, and with that potent storm system still around, I can't rule out some rain and maybe even some snowflakes as well.  We'll see conditions improve as we head into the second half of the weekend and into the start of next week.

 

Also, Daylight Saving Time is this upcoming weekend.  You'll want to remember to set those clocks back one hour Saturday night before you go to bed.

 

Weather or Not, I'm Meteorologist Mitch Keegan
_____________________________________________________

 

Monday, October 26, 2009

 

Well, we're into the last week of October and wouldn't you know it takes until then to see temperatures actually closer to and at average.  And we're also going to see a string of dry days as well.

 

We'll see some sunshine today, but we'll call it partly cloudy as there will certainly be periods of partly cloudy skies.  Highs today will top out around 50.  With a mostly clear sky tonight, lows dip to around 34, which is pretty close to average. 

 

We'll warm up a little more on Tuesday with a high in the middle 50s.  We'll see that continue for Wednesday.  Oh my, 3 days in a row and no mention of rain.  Okay, here it comes, rain returns back into the forecast starting Thursday and Friday.

 

We could even have a few rumbles of thunder on Friday with highs in the upper 50s.  A storm system is in the Pacific Northwest now and will make its way across the Rockies and arrives here Thursday and Friday.

 

Halloween Saturday does have the chance for rain, but it looks like early in the day.  Highs will be in the middle to upper 40s. 

 

The 10-day trend also has a string of dry days as we move into early November.  Late next week, it looks like rain returns to the forecast.

 

Also, Daylight Saving Time is this upcoming weekend.  You'll want to remember to set those clocks back one hour Saturday night before you go to bed.

 

Weather or Not, I'm Meteorologist Mitch Keegan
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Friday, October 23, 2009

Slow moving low pressure, with lots of moisture from the Gulf of Mexico has been bringing heavy rainfall to portions of the Midwest.  It's bringing us rain today and as colder air is dragged into the system, some snowflakes are possible.  Highs today will only reach the upper 30s to maybe a few 40s.  The good news is that there are some drier days ahead. 

 

The rain ends and the clouds start to break up tonight with a low around 32.  Saturday brings a mostly to partly sunny sky and highs around 50.  Another storm system slides in a brings the chance for some rain starting Saturday night into Sunday.  Monday looks dry, but another series of storms moves in for the middle part of next week, bringing more chances for rain.

 

I'm sharing the 10-day Trend with you again today.  Yesterday we talked about the chance for some rain on Halloween, but now, it looks like we might be a little cooler by then, so some snow is possible.  It's way to early to tell if there is going to be any accumulation, but you get the idea.  Halloween is certainly looking cool.

 

Weather or Not, I'm Meteorologist Mitch Keegan
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Thursday, October 22, 2009

 

We'll see a mostly dry day for today, but some drizzle is possible and I really can't rule out an isolated shower.  It'll be a cloudy and breezy day, with highs only in the lower 40s.  Don't get too used to the dry weather, as the rain returns as we head into the overnight hours and into tomorrow.  As cooler air is in place, some wet snowflakes may mix in, but we're not anticipating any snowfall accumulation.

 

Highs on Friday will only top out around 40 and by Saturday, we'll "warm" back into the upper 40s.  Saturday's average high is 58, so we're going to be well below average.  A storm system brings the slight chance for some rain Saturday nigh and Sunday.  All week long this system looked like it was going to totally pass us by, but the models have done a flip-flop, so I really can't rule out any showers on Sunday.

 

We'll see some rainy days next week as well and the cooler temperatures stick around through the end of the month.  Today, I've included the 10 day trend.  So next Thursday, Friday and Saturday (Halloween) go beyond the 7-day forecast, so that's just an early look at what the models are suggesting.  I also take into account our current and past weather, as trends tend to repeat themselves.  There is rain on the 10-day for Halloween, but again, it's early, so that's something we'll watch.

 

Incase you missed it, check out yesterday's post on what is Indian Summer and have we seen one.  That's below.

 

Weather or Not, I'm Meteorologist Mitch Keegan
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Wednesday, October 21, 2009

 

A rain sandwich for us over the next couple of days.  Our first slice of bread is a low pressure system moving in with scattered showers, along with drizzle and fog for today.  Highs will top out in the upper 40s to near 50.  We'll see some showers stick around for tonight where a couple of wet snowflakes may mix in, as we dip to a low around 34. 

 

The meat & cheese & veggies to our sandwich will be Thursday, as high pressure briefly takes over, leaving us with a partly to mostly cloudy sky and a dry day, with high temperatures in the middle 40. 

 

Friday brings our next slice of bread, with scattered showers and even some snowflakes mixing in as one last push of moisture moves in from the Gulf of Mexico and the Pacific Ocean, as well as a push from a storm system sliding out of Canada.  Highs on Friday will only be in the lower 40s.

 

The upcoming weekend still remains to be dry, with highs in the upper 40s to lower 50s, about 10 degrees or so below average.  We bring chances for rain back in as we head into next week.

 

The long range forecast hints at keeping us in a cool pattern.  It looks like the below average weather will stick around right through the end of October and info the first few days of November. 

 

I had a phone call yesterday asking about "Indian Summer" and if we've seen ours already for the year.  In midwestern talk ( the term "Indian Summer" means different things in different parts of the US) that means a period of temperatures of 70° or warmer and sunny skies following the first frost AND before the first snowfall.  We'll let's think back... we've seen our first frost AND we've seen our first snowfall.  So, does this mean this is the fall without an "Indian Summer?"  Well, technically yes, as we did have a frost/freeze and we already saw our first snowfall.  And to add to that, our warm-up from the weekend, we only had highs in the lower 60s on Sunday.  That's not quite warm enough to count.  

 

Weather or Not, I'm Meteorologist Mitch Keegan
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Tuesday, October 20, 2009

 

October is just flying by!  We're watching another potent storm system that will bring the chance for rain, with some heavy rain possible.  Today, we'll see the clouds continue to thicken with some light rain showers possible late today.  Highs will be in the middle 50s.  As we move through the rest of the week, highs will only be in the 40s.

 

The best chances for rain are overnight tonight into Wednesday.  It does look like most of Thursday will be dry, but some isolated showers are possible.  The rain returns on Friday before this storm system finally moves out.  As we head into the overnight hours tomorrow night and again Thursday and Friday night, we could see some snowflakes mix in as temperatures drop to near freezing. 

 

The upcoming weekend is looking dry, with highs in the upper 40s to lower 50s and partly cloudy skies.  Rain returns to the forecast for next Monday.

 

Former Hurricane Rick in the Pacific, now just a tropical storm, could have an influence on our weather.  Rick had been up to a category 5 storm, but now has weakened to tropical storm status.  We could see some moisture from Rick over the next few days, which could lead to some heavy rainfall.  If just enough moisture from T.S. Rick comes in, we could have to keep rain in the forecast for Thursday.

 

 

Do you have something in your community that just screams "This is MY town!" ?  Send me your photo and we could use it for our forecasts, just like the scenes we use.  If could be schools, statues, libraries, historical sites, skylines, courthouses, the list is nearly endless.  The picture needs to be taken on a sunny day, with 1/3 of the photo the sky.  Email me your picture (tvkeegan@keyc.com), and you just might see it on KEYC and Fox Mankato!

 

Weather or Not, I'm Meteorologist Mitch Keegan
_____________________________________________________

 

Monday, October 19, 2009

 

A day off on Friday and a surprise day of work last night, now back to "normal" this morning.  It was nice to see the sunshine this weekend after so many gray and rainy days.  We'll stay quiet today, with a partly cloudy sky and high right about average, in the lower 60s.  But don't get used to the sun, as it won't be around for long.

 

A storm system moving out of the Rockies, quite similar to what we've been seeing, will bring the chance for rain as we move through the rest of the week.  Tonight, clouds will increase and we'll see the chance for some drizzle or light rain.  Scattered showers will be around for Tuesday with a mostly cloudy sky.  By Wednesday and Thursday, there are better chances for rain with highs hovering around 50.

 

Friday keeps the chance for rain but we also have the chance for some snowflakes to mix in, as our highs dip into the middle 40s.

 

The good news: the upcoming weekend is looking okay, with partly sunny skies and highs around 50.

 

There have only been 2 days this month with highs at or above average.  In fact, we've seen 13 days with highs of 50° or cooler.  And 5 of those 13 days, we only had highs in the 30s.  Looks like we'll grow those number of days below average this week, with today being the only day at or above average.

 

Do you have something in your community that just screams "This is MY town!" ?  Send me your photo and we could use it for our forecasts, just like the scenes we use.  If could be schools, statues, libraries, historical sites, skylines, courthouses, the list is nearly endless.  The picture needs to be taken on a sunny day, with 1/3 of the photo the sky.  Email me your picture (tvkeegan@keyc.com), and you just might see it on KEYC and Fox Mankato!

 

Weather or Not, I'm Meteorologist Mitch Keegan
_____________________________________________________

 

Thursday, October 15, 2009--Midday Update

 

The latest winter outlook is out.  We're expecting above average temperatures here, while the southeastern US is expecting below average temperatures.  As far as precipitation goes, we're expecting a "normal" winter.  The southern states are expecting above average precipitation.  The warmer weather is set to be with us thanks to El Nino, which is a warming of the Pacific Waters in the Equatorial regions of the world.

 

Thursday, October 15, 2009

 

Happy Friday, well, at least to me as I'm off tomorrow (sorry for rubbing it in!)  Not necessarily the best weather for today and tomorrow, but there is some improvement in site, especially by Sunday and Monday.

 

Today, we'll see the clouds hang on and some isolated showers and drizzle will be with us.  I think the heaviest rains will be out of here by midday, but some drizzle is still certainly possible.  Then tonight, a second push of an upper level low pressure system will bring some isolated showers and some snowflakes, with some showers sticking around for Friday.  Lows tonight will be in the lower 30s, highs for Friday will be in the middle 40s.

 

The improvements start Saturday with highs getting close to 50 with partly cloudy skies.  By Sunday, mostly sunny skies and highs in the middle ot upper 50s.  And by Monday, we'll near 60.  Enjoy the warm-up while you can, as we head into Tuesday and Wednesday, another storm system moves in and brings the chance for more rain, as temperatures start to cool back down.

 

So far in October, we've had 4.10" of precipitation (rain and melted snow).  As of today, the average monthly precipitation is 1.35", so we're 2.75" above average for the month, which is good news, but overall, we're still below average for the year.  So far in 2009, we've picked up 22.27" of liquid precipitation.

 

Weather or Not, I'm Meteorologist Mitch Keegan
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Wednesday, October 14, 2009

 

Some light rain showers overnight.  We were on the northern edge of the precipitation, which brought showers to Iowa and even some light snow to southeastern Minnesota.  We'll see a mostly cloudy day for today with highs in the lower to middle 40s.  Later today into tonight, we'll see rain showers develop, eventually mixing with some snow and possibly changing over to all snow.  Between tonight and tomorrow morning, we could see up to an inch of snow.

 

As we move through the later morning and afternoon hours tomorrow, the precip will change to rain, as highs warm to near 40.  Some rain showers may linger around for Friday. 

 

By the upcoming weekend, highs warm back into the 50s, to even around 60 for Monday!

 

So far in October, we've had 4.10" of precipitation (rain and melted snow).  As of today, the average monthly precipitation is 1.35", so we're 2.75" above average for the month, which is good news, but overall, we're still below average for the year.  So far in 2009, we've picked up 22.27" of liquid precipitation.

 

Weather or Not, I'm Meteorologist Mitch Keegan
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Tuesday, October 13, 2009

 

Yesterday's snow is nearly a memory as it melted yesterday afternoon.  If you are a fan of winter weather, we have more chances for some snow in the forecast.  Today will be the "calm before the storm." 

 

However, we did set a record low this morning, breaking a 30 year old record!

 

Clouds will increase as we head through the day ahead of a storm system that brings the chance for some rain and snow showers at night and in the morning hours and rain during the day over the next 3 days.  I don't think we'll see major snowfall accumulations from this, as overnight lows will be around freezing and daytime highs will warm into the 40s.  But certainly a dusting is possible.

 

By the upcoming weekend, we'll warm into the 50s, which is still below average.  Our average high temperature for today is 64.  The average high on Saturday is 62, so we'll be about 10 degrees below average this weekend.  The long rainge forecast continues to hint at staying warmer as we head into next week, so let's all cross our fingers!

 

Do you have something in your community that just screams "This is MY town!" ?  Send me your photo and we could use it for our forecasts, just like the scenes we use.  If could be schools, statues, libraries, historical sites, skylines, courthouses, the list is nearly endless.  The picture needs to be taken on a sunny day, with 1/3 of the photo the sky.  Email me your picture (tvkeegan@keyc.com), and you just might see it on KEYC and Fox Mankato!

 

Weather or Not, I'm Meteorologist Mitch Keegan
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Monday, October 12, 2009--Noon Update

 

The snow is pretty much ending, just some flurries possible this afternoon.  Here is just a few snowfall reports I was able to drudge up.  Linda in Gibbon sent in some great photos of the snow, you can find those on our weather Facebook page, www.facebook.com/keycweather

 

Enjoy the break tomorrow, as more rain and snow showers are in the forecast starting tomorrow night and through the rest of the week.  See my post from this morning below.

 

Monday, October 12, 2009

 

A nice surprise after seeing a dusting of snow on Saturday, a low pressure system moving out of the Rockies is bringing some light rain and snow to southern Minnesota and northern Iowa.  The good news is that most of the precipitation is falling as rain and the snow is melting as it hits the ground.  We could see up to 2" of snow is some locations, otherwise a dusting to 1" is possible.  Highs today will be in the middle to upper 30s.

 

Yesterday, it looked like more snow was possible, infact, it looked like we could have seen up to 4" of snow.  Well, the clouds rolled in overnight sooner than expected, they acted like a blanket and kept our temperatures warmer.  Oh darn, right?

 

Tuesday will be drier, with highs in the lower to middle 40s.  Another storm system has its sight set on us, bringing the chance for more rain and you guessed it, snow.

 

We'll see a light rain and snow mix possible late Tuesday night into early Wednesday, then some rain showers around on Wednesday.  We'll see that pattern repeat through Friday, with a rain and snow mix possible overnight with rain showers during the day.  High temperatures will be in the lower to middle 40s and lows around 30.

 

By the upcoming weekend, we'll see our temperatures bounce back into the 50s.  HEAT WAVE!  Average high temperatures for this week are in the middle 60s.

 

Do you have something in your community that just screams "This is MY town!" ?  Send me your photo and we could use it for our forecasts, just like the scenes we use.  If could be schools, statues, libraries, historical sites, skylines, courthouses, the list is nearly endless.  The picture needs to be taken on a sunny day, with 1/3 of the photo the sky.  Email me your picture (tvkeegan@keyc.com), and you just might see it on KEYC and Fox Mankato!

 

Weather or Not, I'm Meteorologist Mitch Keegan
_____________________________________________________

 

Friday, October 9, 2009

 

Well, it's here, Friday.  The day before the really cold air gets here and just hours before we see our first flakes of snow.  There's no avoiding it, at least we won't need the shovels or the snowblower!  From the graphic I've included today, it's a little early for us to be seeing our first flakes of snow.  Over the past 8 years, we typically see our first flakes of snow in the mid and later parts of the month.  Of course there are a few outliers, 2002 and 2006.  In 2004 and 2005, it took until later in November.

 

Today we'll see a mix of sun and clouds as the clouds increase ahead of the low pressure system that brings the snow tonight and tomorrow.  Highs today will be in the upper 40s to near 50.  The snow will develop overnight into tomorrow and ending around midday.  There is the chance for some isolated spots to see up to an inch of snow from this storm.  Most of us will see just a dusting, on some grassy surfaces, on the windshield of the car, etc. 

 

Saturday's highs will only top out in the middle to upper 30s.  Overnight lows dip to the lower 20s, so expect a hard freeze Saturday night.  Sunday's highs bounce back into the lower 40s.  That's before our next storm system moves in Sunday night and Monday.

 

We'll see the chance for some rain and snow on Monday, where areas northwest of Mankato (towards Alexandria, Wilmar) could see a couple inches of snow.  Here in southern Minnesota and northern Iowa, I think we could see another dusting.  Highs on Monday top out around 40.

 

We slowly warm back up next week, to the middle 40s to near 50 by Thursday.

 

Again, a hard freeze is likely this weekend, when our lows dip into the middle 20s for an extended period of time.  And don't freak out about the snow, if we see any accumulation, it will only be a dusting!!

 

Do you have something in your community that just screams "This is MY town!" ?  Send me your photo and we could use it for our forecasts, just like the scenes we use.  If could be schools, statues, libraries, historical sites, skylines, courthouses, the list is nearly endless.  The picture needs to be taken on a sunny day, with 1/3 of the photo the sky.  Email me your picture (tvkeegan@keyc.com), and you just might see it on KEYC and Fox Mankato!

 

Weather or Not, I'm Meteorologist Mitch Keegan
_____________________________________________________

 

Thursday, October 8, 2009

I hope you enjoyed the sunshine and mild weather from yesterday, because its going to be a while before we see our temperatures warm back into the 60s.  We had a cold front push through and has switched our winds around to the northwest.  Those northwest winds will be drawing in the colder air, right as we move into the weekend. 

 

Some isolated showers are in the forecast for today with highs 10° or so cooler than yesterday.  Tonight, a freeze warning is in effect for Redwood, Renville and Lyon counties, as lows there will dip into the middle 20s.  The rest of us should see lows around 30.  We'll see a widespread hard freeze as we move into the weekend.  Friday's highs will be in the upper 40s with partly sunny skies. 

 

A low pressure system will swing out of Canada as we move into Friday night and Saturday, bringing the chance for some snow.  And with just enough cold air and moisture, that chance for light snow lingers into Saturday, which is a change from what we talked about yesterday.  And there are some indications that a dusting of snow is possible from this storm.  Don't panic... don't throw tomatoes.  The ground is far to warm for this snow to stick, so we're talking about on your windshield, the top of the car, some on the grass, etc.  Some flurries are still possible on Sunday and Sunday night.  That's before another change to the forecast comes along.

 

This next storm had looked like it would slide south, but now it's returned to a little more of a northerly track, so for Monday, we have the chance for some rain and snow showers with highs in the middle 40s.  We'll dry up for Tuesday before another chance for some rain enters the forecast on Wednesday with a high around 50... oh heat wave!

 

Again, a hard freeze is likely this weekend, when our lows dip into the middle 20s for an extended period of time.  And don't freak out about the snow, if we see any accumulation, it will only be a dusting!!

 

Do you have something in your community that just screams "This is MY town!" ?  Send me your photo and we could use it for our forecasts, just like the scenes we use.  If could be schools, statues, libraries, historical sites, skylines, courthouses, the list is nearly endless.  The picture needs to be taken on a sunny day, with 1/3 of the photo the sky.  Email me your picture (tvkeegan@keyc.com), and you just might see it on KEYC and Fox Mankato!

 

Weather or Not, I'm Meteorologist Mitch Keegan
_____________________________________________________

 

Wednesday, October 7, 2009

 

Oh my, we're going to see some sunshine today thanks to a quick shot of high pressure.  High temperatures will reach the lower 60s for today with mostly sunny skies.  As we head into tomorrow though, a cold front will move in and the chance for showers returns to the forecast.  And behind that front, much colder air.  I had to use my ice scraper this morning.  Some of the rain from yesterday froze to my windshield.  We'll be looking for frost as we head into the weekend.

 

On Friday, we'll see partly cloudy skies and highs in the middle to upper 40s.  By Saturday and Sunday, we'll see highs in the lower 40s and low temperatures in the middle to upper 20s.  So a hard freeze is quite likely this weekend. 

 

We're also looking for the chance for some light snow showers/flurries on Friday night into early Saturday morning.  Don't worry, there won't be any accumulation of snowfall.  Now yesterday, we talked about the chance for some rain and snow showers on Sunday.  That storm system now looks like it's going to move further south than it did yesterday, so now we're just expecting partly cloudy skies for the weekend.  I wouldn't be surprised if we do see some flurries though. 

 

Do you have something in your community that just screams "This is MY town!" ?  Send me your photo and we could use it for our forecasts, just like the scenes we use.  If could be schools, statues, libraries, historical sites, skylines, courthouses, the list is nearly endless.  The picture needs to be taken on a sunny day, with 1/3 of the photo the sky.  Email me your picture (tvkeegan@keyc.com), and you just might see it on KEYC and Fox Mankato!

 

Weather or Not, I'm Meteorologist Mitch Keegan
_____________________________________________________

 

Tuesday, October 6, 2009

 

I think we've all moved to the Pacific Northwest and no one told us.  Okay, not really, but it's been seeming that way, as we're in another day with scattered showers and mostly cloudy skies.  Highs today won't warm up a whole lot, only in to the upper 40s.  It will be breezy today, with northwest winds gusting up to 30 mph.  There's only one bright spot in the 7-day forecast and that's tomorrow.

 

A quick shot of high pressure will be with us for Wednesday, bringing a mostly to partly sunny skies and highs around 60.  It will be breezy, with a southerly flow of winds.  Then the other shoe will drop as we head into the rest of the week and into the weekend.

 

Another cold front will move in on Thursday, bringing the chance for some isolated showers and highs around 50.  Our temperatures start to slide into the upper 40s for Friday.  By Saturday and Sunday, our highs will be in the lower 40s and overnight lows will be in the middle to upper 20s. 

 

There is the chance for some flurries on Friday night.  There is even the chance for some rain and snow showers on Sunday.  Don't worry, again no accumulation expected as the ground is too warm, but certainly, some wet snowflakes are possible this weekend.

 

Do you have something in your community that just screams "This is MY town!" ?  Send me your photo and we could use it for our forecasts, just like the scenes we use.  If could be schools, statues, libraries, historical sites, skylines, courthouses, the list is nearly endless.  The picture needs to be taken on a sunny day, with 1/3 of the photo the sky.  Email me your picture (tvkeegan@keyc.com), and you just might see it on KEYC and Fox Mankato!

 

Weather or Not, I'm Meteorologist Mitch Keegan
_____________________________________________________

 

Monday, October 5, 2009

 

After a cloudy, cool and dreary weekend, we're back at it again today, with another low pressure system moving in.  That storm will bring more scattered showers and maybe even a few rumbles of thunder today.  Highs will only top out in the upper 40s to near 50.  We keep the scattered showers around for tonight and into Tuesday.

 

By Wednesday, we'll see a little bit more sunshine with highs close to 60 before there's another chance for some rain on Thursday.  As we head into Friday, another storm system will move in and bring the chance for some rain late on Friday and into Saturday.  As our lows dip into the lower 30s, there is the chance for some snow flurries.  Okay, settle down... no accumulation is expected because the ground is still too warm.  Just a few flurries will mix in with the showers.

 

Highs for the upcoming weekend will be in the middle 40s and again, lows in the lower 30s.  Definately feeling very fall like.

 

Weather or Not, I'm Meteorologist Mitch Keegan
_____________________________________________________

 

  Friday, October 2, 2009

 

A months worth of rain in just one day.  We've seen more rain in the past 48 hours than we did in all of September, and in April or May.  As of 6:30 this morning, we've seen 2.40" of rain here at KEYC.  With low pressure sitting overhead, we'll see cloudy skies and drizzle for today.  As the system moves east, rain that is off to the north and west will move back through today and tonight.  Highs will only top out around 50. 

As far as precipitation for September goes, we of course ended the month below average.  We received only .78" of rain here at the station, that's 2.32" below average for the month.  We were 9.79" below average for the year at the end of September.  Now, with the recent heavy rains, we're 7.61" below average for precipitation.  So, some improvement there, which is good news..

A few scattered showers are still possible early on Saturday with a high of 52.  The better day of the weekend will be Sunday, with mostly to partly sunny skies and highs in the middle 50s.

 

By the start of next week, another storm system will move in and bring the chance for showers on Monday and Tuesday.  High temperatures over the next 7-days will be in the 50s.  Lows will be in the 30s and 40s, so it's certainly feeling more like fall around here!

 

Yesterday, this blog surpassed 20,000 reads since we launched our new website last year.  So, thanks for reading and have a great weekend!

 

Weather or Not, I'm Meteorologist Mitch Keegan
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Thursday, October 1, 2009

 

Welcome to October and a rainy start to a new month.  With the round of rain that moved through this morning, we picked up half an inch of rain here at the station.  We'll see periods of showers and storms, with some heavy rain possible.  By the time the rain is done early on Saturday, we could be face rainfall totals nearing 2" or more in some locations.  As this strong low pressure system moves from the Dakotas, across southern Minnesota and northern Iowa, we'll see periods of rain.  There will certainly be dry times.  We'll also be facing strong winds, gusting up to 30 to 35 mph at times.  Temperatures remain on the cool side.

 

Highs over the next 7 days will be in the 50s, which is acutally below average for this time of the year.  Our average high: in the upper 60s.   We'll near 60 on Sunday before another storm system brings the chance for rain as we head into late Sunday, Monday and Tuesday.  Low temperatures will be in the upper 30s to lower to middle 40s.  Our average low is in the lower to middle 40s.

 

As far as precipitation for September goes, we of course ended the month below average.  We received only .78" of rain here at the station, that's 2.32" below average for the month.  We're 9.79" below average for the year.

 

Weather History:  In 1999, one of the earliest significant snowfalls fell in a narrow track across southern Minnesota. Reported snowfall totals included 4.0 inches in Montgomery (LeSeur County) and Northfield (Rice County), 3.8 inches in Springfield (Brown County), 3.0 inches in Vesta (Redwood county), and 2.8 inches in Mankato (Blue Earth County).

 

Do you have something in your community that just screams "This is MY town!" ?  Send me your photo and we could use it for our forecasts, just like the scenes we use.  If could be schools, statues, libraries, historical sites, skylines, courthouses, the list is nearly endless.  The picture needs to be taken on a sunny day, with 1/3 of the photo the sky.  Email me your picture (tvkeegan@keyc.com), and you just might see it on KEYC and Fox Mankato!

 

On a personal note: Today is my 2 year anniversary of re-employment at KEYC.  If you are an avid KEYC viewer, you'll remember I was here from August 2005 to November 2006.  I added in my head how long I've worked at KEYC and it's just over 3 years and 3 months.  So, thanks for watching all these years.  It's nice to meet some of you when we're out and about.

 

Weather or Not, I'm Meteorologist Mitch Keegan
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