MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) — We’re expecting between 6 and 12 inches of snow in the latest winter storm to hit Minnesota, but will it help our drought conditions?

Yes and no, according to state Climatologist Greg Spoden.

Spoden said lakes and rivers will see a nice bump when the snow melts, but not much will soak into the ground.

Spoden said he expects the ground to thaw at the end of March and into early April.

That’s when he’s hoping for significant rainfall, which will actually be able to penetrate the surface and bring some much-needed moisture.