WINTER 2025 ENDED WITH A SNOWFALL DEFICIT THAT REINTRODUCED DRY CONDITIONS

As of May 2, 2025, the Twin Cities has received approximately 6 inches of precipitation, which is near normal for this time of year, according to the National Weather Service (NWS). Nearly half of this year’s to-date precipitation fell in March, as rainfall throughout the month lifted the watershed from drought, following an abnormally dry Winter. 

The Twin Cities experienced a “mild” 2024-25 Winter, according to the Department of Natural Resources’ (DNR) Snow and Cold Index. The area received 29.4 inches of snow throughout the season, which is approximately 21 inches below normal, according to the NWS.

Through the end of 2024 and into 2025, the watershed fluctuated in and out of drought. Above-normal precipitation in November and December alleviated Fall 2024 drought conditions, however, the snowfall deficit reintroduced abnormally dry conditions by February 2025. 

March and April precipitation totals eased dry conditions within the watershed. Although the watershed has not been in a drought classification since early April, nearly 75% of the state remains abnormally dry, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. The NWS’ 8 – 14-day outlook predicts the region may experience below-normal precipitation and above-normal temperatures in the near term.

Lake Minnetonka currently sits at 929.22 feet, which is 2.16 inches below the Lake’s Ordinary High Water Level (OHW). Ice out was declared on March 29, 2025, which is 15 days earlier than the median ice out date, and the lake level has gradually increased since then in response to Spring precipitation and flows from the upper watershed.

Following severe weather on Monday, April 28, the lake level rose approximately 2 inches, primarily due to high-speed winds that affected sensor readings, before stabilizing near its current level.

Current and historical Lake Minnetonka readings and dam discharge rates can be viewed on MCWD’s website. Real-time readings for Lake Minnetonka can be viewed on the U.S. Geological Survey’s (USGS) website.

Currently, Minnehaha Creek is flowing at approximately 50 cubic feet per second (cfs) at Hiawatha Avenue, following Spring snowmelt and recent rainfall. USGS provides real-time readings for Minnehaha Creek at Hiawatha Avenue, as well as historical flow and other water data for this station.