Located in the center of North America, Minnesota is at a climate "crossroads," where different air masses influence the state's weather. Consequently, drought and flood are not uncommon.
Rain and snow are among the most common types of precipitation that fall in Minneapolis. The amount of each varies throughout the year.
The average monthly precipitation in Minneapolis ranges from 0.3 inches to 7.4 inches. The most common form of precipitation is rain alone, followed by snow alone.
When it does snow, the amount can vary from region to region. Some areas of the state receive much more snow than others.
It is not unusual for Minnesota to experience heavy snowfall during the winter months. This is especially true of the northern and central regions of the state, which often experience more snow than the southern parts of the state.
Snow removal is a major priority in Minnesota, as large snowbanks can make it difficult to drive. This can cause significant problems for businesses and families who need to get in and out of their homes.
As long as the air mass is stable, Minnesota can expect to see snow during most of the winter. The snowiest areas in the state are found along the Lake Superior highlands, which receive snow from the larger-scale weather systems that travel through the Midwest.
