How Do Winter Storms Develop? Local Officials Offer Insight Into What Makes Our Northland Weather Tick

Living in the Northland we all know what this time of year brings:  Winter weather!  But have you ever wondered how those brutal winter storms develop and what makes them love our part of the country so much?

Officials with Saint Louis County and the National Weather Service offer the following information on those winter storms;  while their origins are varied, all winter storms have three key components:

• Cold Air:  For snow and ice to form, the temperature must be below freezing in the clouds and near the ground.
• Moisture:  Water evaporating from bodies of water, such as a large lake or the ocean, is an excellent source of moisture.
• Lift:  Lift causes moisture to rise and form clouds and precipitation. An example of lift is warm air colliding with cold air and being forced to rise. Another example of lift is air flowing up a mountain side.

This winter, your local authorities recommend using safety and caution.  Listen for and heed weather-related announcements and forecasts. Prepare your vehicle and yourself in case of in climate conditions.