07-09-2025 Council Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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Ramsey County | Multi-Jurisdiction Hazard Mitigation Plan 92 • Temperature Fluctuations: Temperature fluctuations are increasingly causing cycles of melting and refreezing, which heightens the risk of ice storms and hazardous driving conditions. In Minnesota, most of the observed warming has occurred during the coldest periods. Since records began in January 1895, average daily low temperatures have increased at more than twice the rate of high temperatures. The winter season (December through February) has warmed 2-3 times faster than summer (June through August). This winter warming has accelerated in recent decades. From 1970 to 2021, average daily winter low temperatures rose over 15 times faster than summer high temperatures. The frequency of extreme cold temperatures, such as -35°F in northern Minnesota and -25°F in the southern region, has decreased by up to 90%. While Minnesota will continue to experience periodic severe cold spells, the long-term decline in extreme cold is almost certain to persist. • Increased Intensity: Warmer temperatures can lead to more moisture in the atmosphere, potentially resulting in heavier snowfall and more intense winter storms. • Frequency of Extreme Events: While overall winter precipitation might decrease in some areas, the frequency of extreme winter weather events could increase. • Shift in Snowfall Patterns: Changes in temperature and precipitation patterns could shift where and when snow falls, affecting traditional snowfall regions and potentially leading to unexpected snowstorms in areas that usually receive less snow. • More Rain than Snow: Warmer winter temperatures might lead to more winter precipitation falling as rain rather than snow, increasing the risk of flooding and reducing snowpack. • Prolonged Storm Duration: Changes in atmospheric circulation patterns could lead to slower- moving storms, resulting in longer-lasting and potentially more damaging winter weather events. • Changes in Storm Tracks: Alterations in the jet stream and other atmospheric patterns may change the paths that winter storms take, affecting which areas are most impacted. • Increased Energy Costs: More intense and frequent storms could lead to higher energy demands for heating and storm response, impacting infrastructure and increasing costs for residents. • Public Health Impacts: Greater variability and intensity in winter storms can lead to increased risks to public health, such as hypothermia, frostbite, and accidents related to icy conditions. While the exact relationship between climate change and tornadoes is complex and still under active research, the evidence suggests that climate change is likely to impact the frequency, intensity, and distribution of winter weather in the Midwest. Improved understanding and modeling of these changes are essential for developing effective mitigation and adaptation strategies. 3.13.7 VULNERABILITY ASSESSMENT 3.13.7.1 People Blizzards can cause whiteout conditions, making travel dangerous and leading to numerous accidents. They can also disrupt transportation and supply chains, leaving people stranded and unable to access