A hot and muggy Friday is in store for the Twin Cities metro, with heat index values approaching 96 degrees as thunderstorms approach later in the day. The area faces a Level 2 severe weather risk this evening, extending into southeastern Minnesota, as storms potentially bring damaging winds, large hail, and heavy rain. Humidity remains high into the weekend, with multiple rounds of showers and storms possible through Monday.
What to expect today
– A cold front will move into the region and stall, creating a favorable setup for strong to severe storms later Friday afternoon and evening. Those storms are expected to continue overnight into Saturday morning but should weaken as they move away.
– The front will also keep humidity high and serve as a focal point for rounds of heavy rain through the weekend. Widespread rain totals of 1–2 inches are likely, with local amounts around 3–6 inches possible. This could lead to occasional flooding concerns in some areas.
Temperatures and conditions
– Friday will be hot and steamy, with dew points in the 70s and daytime highs in the mid to upper 80s. The metro area will feel hotter, with a heat index in the mid to upper 90s.
– Overnight, northern Minnesota will cool into the 50s and 60s, while southern areas stay warm and muggy in the 70s.
Weekend outlook
– Saturday starts with morning rain and thunderstorms, then skies become mostly cloudy. It should be mostly muggy and dry during the afternoon with highs in the 80s. A stray thunderstorm can’t be ruled out.
– Another round of showers and storms could move in Saturday night and linger into parts of Sunday. By the end of the weekend, conditions should trend cooler, with highs dropping into the 70s.
– Monday morning may bring additional showers before a slower clearing trend, ending several days of unsettled weather. The week ahead looks drier and more seasonable, with temperatures in the lower 80s.
Seven-day outlook at a glance
– Expect hot, humid conditions Friday with a chance of severe storms.
– Saturday brings morning rain, followed by a mainly cloudy but drier afternoon and cooler highs in the 80s.
– Sunday to Monday brings more showers, then a gradual drying trend with cooler, more comfortable temperatures returning.
Ways to stay safe and get more value from the forecast
– If severe storms threaten, seek sturdy shelter, avoid windows, and stay away from trees that could topple in strong winds.
– Prepare an emergency kit with chargers, flashlights, and non-perishable foods; monitor local advisories for flood warnings and road closures.
– Hydrate frequently, wear light clothing, and limit outdoor activity during peak heat and humidity.
– Plan travel with weather in mind; if you encounter flooded roads, turn around and detour to the safest route.
Bottom line: The weekend will be unsettled with heat and humidity giving way to rounds of storms and potential flooding concerns. While the extended period of unsettled weather brings hazards, cooler, drier conditions are expected to arrive as early as next week, offering relief from the heat. A hopeful note: the pattern should shift toward calmer, more comfortable conditions after the weekend. Summary: Unsettled weekend ahead with hot, humid conditions and multiple rounds of storms; risk of heavy rain and flooding in spots; cooler, drier weather returning next week.