Minnesota weather outlook predicts warmer autumn and ongoing drought

The Climate Prediction Center has released its fall weather outlook for September, October, and November, forecasting a warmer-than-normal autumn for Minnesota and much of the United States.

In St. Cloud, average high temperatures are expected to be approximately 80 degrees in early September, 64 degrees in early October, and 48 degrees in early November. Precipitation levels across Minnesota are projected to remain near average. In St. Cloud, monthly rainfall averages are estimated at three inches for September, two inches for October, and 1.5 inches for November.

Concerns regarding dry conditions persist, as the U.S. Drought Monitor reports that 88 percent of Minnesota is abnormally dry. This includes 75 percent in moderate drought, 45 percent in severe drought, and 1 percent in extreme drought.