A Weather Service forecaster says these unseasonably warm temperatures will likely soon give way to a cold, snowy winter reminiscent of last year.

The National Weather Service says highs in the 50s and overnight lows above freezing this weekend will increase water levels in streams and tributaries. Ice jams could also cause some flash flooding. The Fargo-Moorhead area is only expected to see minor flooding this spring.

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.

MPR's Paul Huttner takes a critical look at the slew of recent forecasts predicting a harsh winter in Minnesota this year.

The National Weather Service in the Dakotas and Minnesota says it's sticking with the "extreme cold" warnings that it tested last winter. Meteorologists say the winter weather can be dangerously cold even without wind. Forecasters will issue the warning when the temperature could feel like 30 below or colder.

Transit workers say they ready to wrap up the two-year project and reopen all lanes if the weather is dry. Unfortunately, forecasters are predicting a 40 percent chance of rain or snow. The "mega project" has caused some severe headaches for drivers.

The National Weather Service says severe thunderstorms capable of producing large hail and damaging winds are expected to develop Sunday afternoon in southwest Minnesota and move northeast. The Storm Prediction Center has put parts of east central Minnesota under a moderate risk for severe storms.

Forecasters are predicting snowfall accumulations of 2 to 4 inches for parts of southeastern Minnesota by Wednesday. There is a chance of snow showers in the Twin Cities.