There’s a warmup on the way, and temperatures in the 80s are on tap for next week. What’s less clear is how much precipitation we’ll get and where it will fall. Climatologist Kenny Blumenfeld and Jim du Bois discuss the weather pattern change and why there’s so much uncertainty in the forecast models. Also, a look at a recently released climate study that indicates a deadly combination of heat and humidity is threatening to make parts of the Earth uninhabitable at certain times of the year.

We’re in the midst of a dry spell with cooler-than-normal temperatures ahead. Climatologist Kenny Blumenfeld and Jim du Bois discuss spring precipitation patterns and look back at the May 6, 1965 tornado outbreak that struck the Twin Cities’ western and northern suburbs, killing 13 people and causing widespread destruction. Read a document produced by the National Weather Service in 2015 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the event. View radar images of the tornado-producing supercells. Hear WCCO radio’s coverage of the tornadoes courtesy of radiotapes.com.

Do the prospects for mid-to-late spring severe weather outbreaks in Minnesota increase if the Deep South and Plains States experience a more active than usual severe weather season? That’s a question that climatologist Kenny Blumenfeld hopes to answer as he sifts through historical storm data. In this episode, Kenny and Jim du Bois discuss the recent severe weather outbreak in the South featuring a long-track tornado in Mississippi that was at least two miles wide. Also, a look at the conditions that create the potential for severe weather in the midwest, when severe weather is most likely in Minnesota, and why now is the time to think about how you can protect yourself and your family when storms threaten.

A major storm system will spark severe weather in the Deep South and bring snow to parts of Minnesota and Wisconsin on Sunday. The Twin Cities may see several inches of accumulation followed by unseasonably cold temperatures throughout the coming week. Climatologist Kenny Blumenfeld and Jim du Bois discuss the temporary return of winter and why you should pay attention during Severe Weather Awareness Week in Minnesota and Wisconsin (April 13-17).

Climatologist Kenny Blumenfeld and Jim du Bois discuss the approaching weather system that will bring a wintry mix of precipitation to a wide area of Minnesota on Thursday and Friday. 60 degree temperatures are on tap for early next week. Also, a look at how warmer than average water temperatures in the Gulf of Mexico might impact the prospects for severe weather and hurricanes. Finally, a reminder that severe storm season is upon us, and it’s critical to stay weather-alert despite the distractions of the coronavirus crisis.

Climatologist Kenny Blumenfeld and Jim du Bois practice social distancing to discuss a dreary, rainy, snowy, windy and cold start to spring with the prospect for slippery roads as precipitation freezes. Also, Kenny shares a childhood story about warning sirens and tornadoes that relates to the anxiety all of us are feeling right now.

Kenny and Jim celebrate the arrival of meteorological spring on the banks of Minnehaha Creek and discuss the unseasonably warm March weather. Also, a look at the relationship between weather, climate and public health, the potential for spring flooding, deadly tornadoes in Tennessee, and the myth of the high school state tournament snowstorms.

Climatologist Kenny Blumenfeld and Jim du Bois discuss common weather lore and myths, debunking some and giving a qualified nod to others. Also, a look back at the recent cold snap, the prospects for spring flooding and and the potential for stormy weather next week.

It’s not your imagination. The Sun made its fewest January appearances since the State Climatology Office began taking solar observations in 1963. Climatologist Kenny Blumenfeld and Jim du Bois discuss this dubious new record, near record-breaking highs and warmest low temperatures this past weekend, the impact of a mild winter on recreational activities, and why making long-range predictions is challenging for rodents like Punxsutawney Phil as well as human forecasters.

Last week’s winter storm failed to produce the expected snowfall amounts in much of Minnesota, including the Twin Cities. Climatologist Kenny Blumenfeld and Jim du Bois discuss the “busted forecast” and how an unforeseen dry slot reduced precipitation. Also, a look at the over-reliance on forecast models, public frustration when forecasts go wrong, and the risks of trying to predict a weather event with too much precision. And there’s good news ahead; today is the last day of unseasonably cold weather for at least the rest of the month.