John Wheeler: Late winter/early spring is a volatile time of year

FARGO — When the weather in late winter/early spring is snowy and cold, like this year, we find ourselves remembering other years when spring came early. But when spring does come early, we recall spring snowstorms of the past and wonder where they've gone. Reconciling both of these circumstances, we can collectively gather just how volatile March and April weather can be.

Historically, it has been 80 degrees in March and 100 degrees in April, but it has also been -35 degrees in March and -13 in April. Either month is capable of a snowstorm measured in feet or a series of snows that make it seem like there will never be spring. Likewise, a few March and April months have passed by without any snow at all. This is a transitional time of year, and almost anything can happen.