What a difference a year makes

   Last December was incredibly snowy and temperatures averaged a bit below normal.  In the Twin Cities, we set a new December snowfall record, with a total of 33.6 inches. This December is running about 10 degrees warmer (through Dec. 21) than last December.  Snowflakes have been a rare sight...we've  seen only 5.4 inches of snow so far at MSP airport.
   A careful look at the latest computer models shows little hope of significant flakes over the next few days.  Yes, that means a White Christmas is very unlikely this year.  The last time we didn't have a White Christmas in the Twin Cities was in 2006, so I guess we were kind of due for a brown/tan Christmas.  
   If you need snowcover to get you in the holiday spirit, head to the arrowhead region of northeastern Minnesota...most spots up there have several inches on the ground.  A Minnesota snow depth map is now posted at http://climate.umn.edu/doc/snowmap/snowmap_111222.htm
   Hope you have a great Christmas, and an awesome 2012!