Minnesota's pretty big. Sometimes the weather at one end of the state is a far cry from what's going on at the other end. But this December -- regardless of whether you're on the Range, in the Valley, in the Cities -- the same question is floating out over the brown grass and leaves.

The Twin Cities could get nearly an inch of rain Thursday as temperatures drop during the day, leaving the possibility for a little slush and snow, but no accumulation. It was already snowing early Thursday in western parts of the state as the cold front moves in. Areas in the northern part of the state could get 2-3 inches of snow on the grass, forecasters say.

A light snow shower should lead us into some cooler temperatures this weekend, though temps shouldn't stray too far from the average. Most forecasters are predicting the metro will see anywhere from a light dusting to an inch of snow.

Researchers from the University of Minnesota are studying a cold-hardy bug that serves as a filling meal for trout during the winter season. The insect has little tolerance for warmth, and scientists tell the Star Tribune that even a small fluctuation in temperature could cause changes in the ecosystem.

Yes, that's feet. MPR's Paul Huttner says parts of Minnesota could see anywhere from a foot to 20+ inches of snow. That includes Monday's snowfall, which Huttner says is the first in a series of snow systems headed our way.