Snow chances in Minnesota typically begin to show up in October or November, with measurable snowfall most years by early November in the Twin Cities and earlier (often by late October) in northern Minnesota. Based on recent winter outlooks, 2025–2026 is forecast to be colder and snowier than average for Minnesota, which increases the likelihood of earlier and more frequent snowfall than some past seasons. However, exact timing varies by location and year, and weather can shift week to week. Key takeaways to plan around
- Typical first measurable snowfall: Twin Cities around the first week of November; northern Minnesota earlier.
- 2025–2026 outlook: NOAA forecasts colder-than-average temperatures with above-average snowfall for Minnesota, though individual storms and timing remain uncertain.
- Short-term signals: A cold snap or lake-effect patterns can bring early flakes to parts of Minnesota, especially near the Great Lakes and northern regions.
Tips to stay updated
- Check local forecasts from the National Weather Service (NWS) and trusted local outlets as autumn progresses.
- Watch for lake-effect snow risk along the western Great Lakes as surface temperatures cool.
- Monitor winter outlook discussions in October, which often set expectations for the upcoming season.
If you’d like, I can pull the latest specific forecast details for your exact Minnesota location and summarize when snow is most likely to begin this season.
