Snow depths in the southern two thirds of Minnesota ranked above the 95th percentile for the date, and snow depths for the remainder of Minnesota were above the 60th percentile. For some areas of west central and southwestern Minnesota, snow depths were at or near all-time record values for the date. Some areas within the Minnesota River basin reported five to six inches of snow water equivalent. Portions of the upper reaches of the Red River basin report snow water content of four to five inches, but the snow pack over the majority of the Red River watershed contains less than three inches of water. However, for gauging locations that provide winter data, the U.S. Geological Survey indicates that many points in the Red River basin are above the 90th percentile when compared to historical values for the date.
Stream flows in other areas of the state are near average for the date.
The NDMC index is a blend of science and subjectivity where intensity categories are based on six key indicators and numerous supplementary indicators. Many counties in southern, central, and northwestern Minnesota fall in this grouping. The Palmer Drought Severity Index is used for assessing long-term meteorological conditions. March precipitation normals range from three quarters of an inch in northwestern Minnesota to near two inches in the southeast. The March temperature outlook tilts towards below normal values.