Will We Have A White Or Brown Thanksgiving In North Dakota?

It's hard to believe it, but Thanksgiving isn't that far away.

It's nearly the middle of November, and other than a quick dusting of snow on November 1st, that's been it. We have had a very warm and dry fall, just like what most weather agencies predicted earlier this year.

This winter is expected to trend a little colder than normal with about average snowfall.

The average snowfall in Bismarck is 46 inches. We saw significantly less than last winter. Because of our short-term memories, even an average winter of snow may seem like a lot after last season.

We expected to move to a La Nina winter pattern soon which could flip the light switch for colder temperatures and eventually more snow.

We had a "brown" Thanksgiving in 2023 after some October snow melted rather quickly and a warm fall last year as well.

What will the Thanksgiving of 2024 bring us?  Will we have a "brown" or "white" Thanksgiving?

According to the long-range forecasts from both AccuWeather and The Weather Channel, it appears unlikely we will see snow on the ground this Thanksgiving.

Temperatures will trend cooler starting next week from the 50s for high temperatures to more seasonal 30s and 40s. Overnight lows will be cold enough for snow, but it's unlikely it would last because of high temperatures being just too warm.

Here's a long-range forecast graphic for Bismarck from AccWeather.

It appears at this time, that a BROWN Thanksgiving looks likely for Bismarck Mandan, and much of North Dakota.

I for one can live with it. More time in the outdoors and a shorter winter. Sounds good to me.