Lake Minnetonka sees earliest ice-in since 2019
FOX 9 reports that frigid early-December temperatures have produced the earliest ice-in on Lake Minnetonka since 2019, prompting the Minnesota DNR to urge caution on variable early-season ice. Local guide services say cold conditions could add roughly an inch of ice per day and are targeting day-after‑Christmas outings, but officials warn fresh snow can insulate and slow ice formation and that no lake ice is ever 100% safe.
📌 Key Facts
- DNR says Lake Minnetonka has its earliest ice-in since 2019
- DNR warns early snow can insulate and slow ice formation; ice thickness varies with location and flow
- Local operator Tonka West Guide Services aims to take clients out starting the day after Christmas, citing faster ice growth in current cold
📊 Relevant Data
Minnesota has warmed more than 2.5°F since 1900, with most warming taking place over the winter.
Lake ice duration across Minnesota has decreased by up to 17 days over the last 50 years.
As winters in Minnesota get warmer, the lake ice season is shrinking — Minnesota Pollution Control Agency
Minnesota currently sees an average of 2.8 ice accident deaths per year, down from 3.4 deaths over the prior two decades.
Ice Fishing Turns Deadly as World Warms — Scientific American
Outdoor recreation contributes $13.5 billion in gross domestic product to Minnesota's economy.
Outdoor recreation is big business in Minnesota — The Timberjay