The Austin area is just shy of experiencing the snowiest December on record, according to the National Weather Service.

This month, Austin experienced 31.4 inches overall — short of the 36.5 record snowfall in December of 2000.

Grand Meadow did end up setting a record, with 40.6 inches of snow this month. That’s compared to the previous snowiest December of 2008, when the area saw 34.6 inches.

In Albert Lea, a one-inch snowfall could push it over its snowfall target. As of now, the area has 33.5 inches of snow, compared to the record of 34.6 inches.

While a winter storm expected Friday could hoist Albert Lea to record standings, it likely won’t do much for Austin.

The forecast calls for more rain than snow, with freezing drizzle expected to begin today.

The rain will continue through Thursday, accompanied with widespread fog, according to the NWS. Temperatures are expected to reach highs of 37 degrees during the day. But come evening, temperatures could drop dramatically.

“There’s potential for temperatures to drop into the teens Thursday night out there,” said NWS Meteorologist Jeff Boyme.

But the rain won’t stop there.

Friday’s forecast calls for rain and sudden drops in temperatures, which could create ugly driving situations.

“Temperatures look like they’re going to be colder Friday morning, getting down to around 20 to the mid-20s,” said NWS Meteorologist Jeff Boyme.

A warm pressure system will head toward the region, warming things up a bit during the day Friday to 26 degrees, but Boyme said the area around the ground won’t warm up as fast.

“The precipitation is going to fall as freezing rain,” he said.

Snow is likely Friday after 3 p.m., though Boyme said it will be minimal.

New Year’s Day calls for scattered flurries, partly sunny skies and a high near 8 degrees.