Updraft: April 4, 2008 Archive

Transitioning from winter to spring is an exhilarating ride, particularly for meteorologists. Wild swings in temperature, predicting precipitation type and accumulation are just a few challenges.

Yesterday, the mercury climbed into the middle 50s with rapidly melting snow. On Monday forecasters were right on the mark with the prediction of six or more inches of snow in the metro area, coming on the heels of 52 degrees on Sunday.

On Thursday, cloud cover and showers held the temperature to only 40 degrees in Des Moines. Sunshine boosted readings well into the 50s north of the cloud shield in central Minnesota. That's how much a layer of clouds can impact the maximum temperatures.

This afternoon we will watch the thermometer steadily climb through the 50s. If clouds hold off, the mercury could reach 60 for the first time since November 11th when the high was 63 in the Twin Cities.

It just might be time to fire up the grill for a Friday night barbecue!

Check out the website created by the National Weather Service Regional Office in Texas for educational information on the importance of the meandering jet stream.

Lesson on the jet stream
CE