Wildfire smoke will linger over Minnesota on Friday, leading to hazy sunshine as the workweek comes to a close. An air quality alert has been issued across the state and will remain in effect until 11 p.m. this evening.
In addition to the smoke, residents can expect typical summer heat and humidity, with afternoon temperatures reaching the upper 80s. Northern Minnesota may experience a few brief thunderstorms in the evening.
Looking ahead to the weekend, conditions are expected to be relatively calm, with any potential storms primarily affecting the northern regions each afternoon. As temperatures and humidity rise, Saturday will see highs nearing 90 degrees. By Sunday and Monday, readings may reach the low 90s, with heat index values approaching 100 degrees on Sunday.
The Twin Cities should prepare for another round of storms late Sunday, carrying into Monday night and into Tuesday, bringing the hopeful prospect of some respite from the heat and humidity by the middle of the week. Following the storm system, temperatures are anticipated to decrease to the upper 70s and low 80s by Wednesday, providing a more comfortable environment as we move into next weekend.
This weather pattern serves as a reminder of the impact of wildfire conditions on air quality and the importance of staying informed to ensure safety during such extreme weather events.