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Million Dollar Rain

Posted at 8:19 AM on October 6, 2009 by Paul Huttner (1 Comments)

STR.jpg
Twin Cities doppler storm total rainfall shows an arc of heavy 1" to 2" rainfall west of the metro.

It's like money in the bank.

Another widespread rainfall event is soaking southern Minnesota today. For trees, lawns, lakes and rivers these October rains are like money in the bank. The rain gives trees and plants a good long drink before freeze up this winter. The extra moisture recharges soils for growth next spring.

So far rainfall totals have been remarkably consistent with amounts generally ranging between .62" in Eden Prairie to .64" at Twin Cities Airport to .84" near Lake Minnetonka.

Heavier rainfall totals through this morning include 1.11" at Redwood Falls. Doppler indicates more 1"+ rainfall totals west and south of the metro.

These fall rain systems differ from summer systems. In fall mid-latitude cyclones atmospheric lift is generally more widespread and consistent. This tends to produce widespread steady rainfall like we've seen with the past two systems. In summer, atmospheric lift is usually more localized and even violent. This tends to produce pockets of locally heavy rain. Some areas get doused and some remain dry.

Our slow moving low pressure will slide over Mason City Iowa this morning. The low will take its time moving east today, that should keep rainfall in the area through the day before tapering off later tonight. By the time the system pulls out we will likely see another .50" to 1" in some areas. Look for storm totals over 2" in some areas.

High pressure will build in for Wednesday, and the sun will return. This will be the first sunny day in October for much of the region. Enjoy the sun tomorrow with temperatures near 60 in the metro!

PH

Comments (1)

This rain is very welcome, particularly after another dry summer and an exceptionally dry and warm September. However, we are approaching the peak of the fall harvest season for corn and soybeans. It may be a "million dollar" rain for next year's crop, but what is the financial impact on this fall's harvest? Just curious....

Posted by Tim Karlstad | October 6, 2009 7:28 PM

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