What is the average annual snowfall in Minnesota?
• The average annual snowfall in Minnesota varies from 36 inches in the southwest to more than 70 inches along the Lake Superior “snow belt.” Although snow is an important component of Minnesota’s hydrology, the water found in the snow comprises less than 20 percent of the total precipitation received annually. • Snowfall patterns are driven by the combined influence of moisture supply and temperature. For example, the average annual snowfall for Winona and Roseau (at opposite ends of the state) is approximately the same. Winona, the wetter location, will occasionally receive winter precipitation in the form of rain, whereas the colder and drier Roseau seldom receives winter rain. • By far the snowiest areas in Minnesota are the Lake Superior highlands, a ridge of higher terrain along Minnesota’s “north shore.” In addition to receiving snow from the large-scale weather systems moving through the Midwest, the Lake Superior highlands experience localized snow events as well. These locali
