For the first time in almost two weeks, nocturnal migration has returned to central and northern Minnesota, with peak densities of 10-15 dBz (correlating to ~100-200 birds/km^3) at 10:30 P.M. Upper level flow of migrants at Duluth was from the SE, moving towards the NW. At Minneapolis, flow was similiar, yet slightly more southerly. Peak densities overall for the evening should be arrived at by 11:00-12:00 PM.
This return is thanks to calm winds over the entire region this evening, a break from the incessant north and west winds that have plaguing the region for almost two weeks. Evening convective flow of cloud cover and intermittent precipitation kept migrants grounded, resulting in the absolute lack of new arrivals most have been complaining about. I know here in Duluth, it has been absymal. Expect an even better migration tomorrow evening, with winds finally coming from the south, on the back end of a receding high pressure system. There's potential for light fallout on Thursday morning, as the NWS has predicted potential thunderstorms and precipitation for that morning. Enjoy the return of migration! Tom Auer Duluth, MN
