Minnesota: A Snowless Island In A Sea Of Snow

MINNEAPOLIS — Minnesota, often synonymous with harsh winters and snow-covered landscapes, finds itself in a rare and surprising situation.

The latest National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration snow depth map reveals that the state is an island of bare ground, surrounded by recently snow-covered regions to the east, south, and west.

A recent snowstorm that missed Minnesota dumped more than 14 inches of snow in Kansas, according to the National Weather Service.

While much of the Midwest and even parts of the South are blanketed in snow, the Twin Cities and much of Minnesota remain oddly snow-free.

This unusual phenomenon can be attributed to a combination of weather factors. Storm systems that typically bring heavy snowfall to the region have tracked southward, dumping snow on states like Kentucky, Tennessee, and Ohio instead.

Meanwhile, New Year's Eve rain and warmer-than-average temperatures have melted away any snow that did accumulate earlier in December in Minnesota. The result is a "snowless oasis" in the heart of the Upper Midwest—a stark contrast to Minnesota’s reputation as a winter wonderland this time of year.

While some Minnesotans might welcome the break from shoveling and icy roads, others lament the lack of winter recreation opportunities, like sledding and skiing.

With plenty of winter left to go, however, it’s anyone’s guess whether Minnesota’s snowless streak will hold or if the state will soon reclaim its snowy crown.

But there is a light flurry of good news for snow lovers. A slight chance of snow remains this week, don’t expect a major snowstorm to break the dry spell. Read more here.