ROCHESTER, Minn. – A First Alert Day has been issued for Friday as thunderstorms are expected to impact Southeast Minnesota and Northeast Iowa. The primary concern throughout the day is heavy rainfall, with the possibility of strong to severe storms late in the evening.
Residents should prepare for two rounds of showers and thunderstorms on Friday. The first round is anticipated during the morning hours, bringing significant rainfall, although it is not expected to produce severe weather. However, localized heavy downpours might cause minor flooding in certain areas.
The second round of storms will potentially escalate in intensity later in the day. The Storm Prediction Center has issued a level 1 out of 5 threat for severe storms in the region, indicating a conditional risk due to the positioning of a warm front. While heavy rainfall remains the chief concern for both rounds of storms, hail and high winds may emerge as the evening progresses. The tornado threat is minimal but cannot be completely dismissed.
Timing indicates that rain will begin throughout the morning and continue into the early afternoon, with a respite from storms expected mid-afternoon. The more intense storms are projected to arrive after 6 p.m., which could bring heavy rain, particularly in areas south of I-90, where rainfall amounts of 1 to 1.75 inches are possible. This could lead to rapid ponding and minor flooding if training thunderstorms occur.
Looking ahead, late Friday night may see a minor winter mix transitioning into early Saturday morning, but skies are forecasted to clear with highs reaching the low 40s over the weekend. A warm spell is anticipated on Sunday and Monday, with temperatures climbing into the 60s before a return to wintry conditions next Wednesday, which could bring light snow late next week.
This weather pattern highlights the unpredictable nature of late-season storms, reminding residents to stay vigilant and prepared for changing conditions.