For many Minnesota winter enthusiasts, the noticeable lack of snow this season has brought a sense of
disappointment. The scarcity of snow not only interrupts beloved winter activities but also raises concerns
about the broader implications for Minnesota’s climate. Is this a temporary anomaly, or could it signify a
glimpse into the future?

Understanding the Broader Impacts

While a single snowless winter might not immediately alarm us, the consequences are far-reaching. The
high albedo of snow plays a crucial role–less snow cover means less sunlight is reflected off the Earth’s
surface, contributing to a positive feedback loop that leads to more warming and further reductions in
snow. The burning of fossil fuels releases greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide and methane, creating a
blanket that traps the sun’s heat and raises temperatures. The United Nations defines climate change as
“long-term shifts in temperatures and weather patterns”. Changes in the sun’s activity or significant
volcanic eruptions can naturally cause such shifts. However, since the 1800s, the primary catalyst for
climate change has been human activities, particularly the combustion of fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and
gas.

Figure 1 illustrates Minnesota’s average winter daily minimum temperatures from 1896 to 2021,
indicating a significant warming trend, particularly in recent decades. Winter warming rates have risen
sharply, with daily winter low temperatures increasing more than 15 times faster than summer high
temperatures from 1970 through 2021. Minnesota no longer experiences the extreme cold temperatures it
once did. While occasional cold spells may still occur, the sustained decrease in extremely low
temperatures is expected to persist in the long term.

Global Manifestations of Climate Change

Despite Minnesota’s experiences of extreme drought and heat in the summer and altered winter snow
patterns, climate change manifests differently across the globe. Cities like Copenhagen, Denmark face
extreme snowstorms and rain, causing flooding in various European countries (Associated Press 2024, pt.
1). Climate change encompasses more than just temperature increases; it encompasses extreme cold,
droughts, wildfires, floods, tornadoes, hurricanes, and other events intensified by the Anthropocene.

Minnesota Climate Explorer, a simulator, provides users with past and future climate data for the state,
allowing them to explore specific locations, climate variables, months, and historical or future predictions.
By utilizing this advanced tool, researchers, policymakers, and residents can delve into the intricate
details of Minnesota’s changing climate, gaining insight into the dynamic and evolving patterns that shape
the state’s future.

The vanishing snow in Minnesota’s winter landscape serves as a reminder of the ongoing changes in the
state’s climate. The interconnected web of factors, from reduced albedo effects to the long-term
consequences of human-induced climate change, necessitates a proactive approach in understanding and
addressing these challenges. As we unravel the mystery of vanishing snow, we must collectively engage
in informed discussions, research, and actions to mitigate the impacts of climate change and shape a
sustainable future for Minnesota and beyond.

Sources

Augustyniak, Mike. “Lack of Snow, Ice Partially to Blame for Warmer Winter Temperatures in
Minnesota.” CBS News, CBS Interactive, 28 Dec. 2023,
www.cbsnews.com/minnesota/news/lack-of-snow-ice-partially-to-blame-for-warmer-winter-temp
eratures-in-minnesota/.
Press, Associated. “Extreme Cold Grips Nordic Countries as Floods Hit Western Europe.” Voice of
America, Voice of America (VOA News), 3 Jan. 2024,
www.voanews.com/a/extreme-cold-grips-nordic-countries-as-floods-hit-western-europe-/742532
8.html.
“U of M Study Shows Strong Winter and Summer Warming in Minnesota by 2100.” University of
Minnesota, 24 Feb. 2022,
twin-cities.umn.edu/news-events/u-m-study-shows-strong-winter-and-summer-warming-minnesot
a-2100.
Walsh, James. “A Snowless Winter Takes Its Toll on Minnesota’s Way of Life.” Star Tribune, Star
Tribune, 6 Jan. 2024,
www.startribune.com/a-snowless-winter-takes-its-toll-on-minnesotas-way-of-life/600332873/.
“What Is Climate Change?” United Nations, United Nations,
www.un.org/en/climatechange/what-is-climate-change. Accessed 8 Feb. 2024.