Minnesota faces a risk of severe weather Thursday as storms develop this afternoon and intensify into the evening.

Setup for severe weather

The main driver of Thursday’s severe weather threat is a strengthening area of low pressure near the North Dakota–Manitoba border. A cold front extending southeast from this system will sweep across Minnesota later Thursday, acting as the trigger for storm development.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Storm Prediction Center has placed much of south-central Minnesota, including the Twin Cities, and western Wisconsin under a slight risk (level 2 of 5) for severe weather. Areas farther north remain under a marginal risk

Western Minnesota’s primary concern will be fire danger rather than storms.

The main threats with Thursday’s system are large hail and damaging winds. A lower tornado risk exists, primarily during the early stages of storm development. As storms evolve, they may organize into a line, increasing the potential for more widespread damaging straight-line winds.

Timing for storms

The greatest severe weather risk is expected from mid-afternoon into the early evening. Storms are forecast to develop between 12 and 3 p.m. across central and southern Minnesota, then track east toward the Twin Cities metro area between 3 and 6 p.m., before continuing into western Wisconsin between 6 p.m. and 10 p.m.

Stayed tuned to MPR News for more weather updates as they happen!

It’ll feel summerlike Thursday as temperatures soar into the 80s across southern Minnesota. A developing system will touch off storms throughout the day and some could be severe.

Severe storms possible Thursday followed by a cooldown

Temperatures will be warm again Thursday. Enjoy those readings because we probably won’t be this warm again for a week or two if forecast models are to be believed. Highs will be back in the 70s with 60s northeast and cooler readings near Lake Superior.

Dew points will be another thing you’ll notice. They have gone up overnight and will continue to do so Thursday ahead of a cold front. We could see dew points Thursday afternoon in southern Minnesota near 60 degrees, which is muggy for April.

That added moisture and front will be the focus for more potential severe weather later Thursday. This will be our third round of possible severe weather in less than two weeks. That is rather unusual for April.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Storm Prediction Center forecasts a slight risk (level 2 of 5) for severe storms Thursday afternoon and evening for portions of southern Minnesota.

There will likely be some spotty showers ahead of the front already during the day Thursday, but thunderstorms will develop ahead of the front mid to late afternoon into the evening and track east.

Those initial storm cells could produce an isolated tornado or two with the bigger threats being large hail and some damaging wind gusts.

The setup Thursday doesn’t look as impressive as last Friday or Monday, however. The greatest tornado threat is south into Iowa, Nebraska and Kansas.

We also have red flag warnings due to critical fire conditions again for western Minnesota Thursday afternoon as drier air moves back in and gusty west winds develop.

Interestingly, today’s critical fire weather conditions are being driven by a “dry line,” something we don’t see a lot of in Minnesota. You can see a big drop in relative humidity late Thursday afternoon in western Minnesota extending southwest into Nebraska.

The actual cold front is farther behind that into the central Dakotas. This dry air is originating from the high desert areas of New Mexico and Colorado, being pushed northeast ahead of the cold front and behind the surge of higher dew points Thursday.

Behind it, temperatures drop to seasonable levels for Friday and the weekend. Highs Friday will be mostly in the 50s and 60s.

Another storm system looks to bring mostly rain and garden variety thunderstorms late Sunday into Monday.

It could be a decent rainfall for central and southern Minnesota. Total forecast rainfall (including Thursday’s rainfall) through early Tuesday could be in the 1 to 2-inch range for a large area:

Are you enjoying our July preview?

Temperatures soared well into the 80s across much of southern and western Minnesota Wednesday.

Now we watch as the next cold front carves through Minnesota Thursday. A band of higher dew points in the 60s will provide enough moisture ahead of the front to fuel scattered rain and thunder cells Thursday. The European model shows development along the frontal zone midday through the evening hours. The forecast model loop below runs between 1 p.m. and 10 p.m. Thursday.

It doesn’t look like this severe weather event is as potent as last Friday. But scattered severe storms with high winds and large hail are quite possible.

NOAA’s Storm Prediction Center paints the larger risk zone from Minnesota southward Thursday.

Day 2 Convective Outlook NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK

1222 PM CDT Wed Apr 22 2026 Valid 231200Z - 241200Z

...THERE IS A SLIGHT RISK OF SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS FROM SOUTHERN KANSAS INTO SOUTHERN MINNESOTA...

...SUMMARY... Severe thunderstorms will be possible from southern Kansas into southern Minnesota on Thursday. Large hail to very large hail, damaging winds, and a few tornadoes are possible.

...Synopsis...

By early to mid afternoon, convergence along the pre-frontal trough/dryline coupled with increasing height falls/forcing for ascent are expected to support widely scattered thunderstorms from portions of central and southern MN through eastern NE and western IA, into at least northeast KS. While the strongest mid/upper-level wind fields are expected to remain to the immediate west of the initiating boundary, a corridor of 40-45 kt effective bulk shear will overlie the western fringe of the warm sector, supporting organized multicells and supercells as the initial storm mode with an attendant threat for large to very large hail and a few tornadoes. Subsequent upscale growth into a broken band of storms is expected Thursday evening into Thursday night across portions of eastern MN into western WI, western and central IA, southeast NE, northeast KS, and northwest MO. Damaging wind potential will increase with that mode change, with a continued risk for a few tornadoes.

You can see the slight risk zone at the top of this post has been nudged into the Twin Cities area and points south Thursday.

Keep an eye out for possible severe weather watches and warnings Thursday afternoon and evening!

It’ll feel summer-like today as temperatures soar into the 80s across southern Minnesota. A developing system will touch off storms Thursday, some could be severe.

Almost hot Wednesday with storms on the way Thursday

It’ll be a ‘dry heat’ but it will still be very warm Wednesday afternoon. Highs will surge into the 80s across southern Minnesota with 90-degrees possible in parts of western Minnesota. Those readings are 20 to 30 degrees above normal on this Earth Day.

A reminder this Earth Day that these temperatures are at least partly a result of a warmer climate. April is a volatile month for temperatures normally and to be sure, we’ve always had some extreme warm days but climate change makes these extremes more frequent. Climate Central’s Climate Shift Index (CSI) shows forecast temperatures today are made one and a half times to two times more likely due to the warming of average temperatures in recent decades.

Critical fire weather conditions develop again midday today into the afternoon and evening as winds pick up from the south at 15-25 mph and afternoon relative humidity values drop below 30 percent.

Red flag warnings are posted for portions of Minnesota Wednesday midday through evening when temperatures are warmest and relative humidity values are at their lowest.

We’re still watching a developing system that will allow moisture to surge northward tonight into Thursday. Dew points will increase into the 50s to even near 60-degrees by Thursday afternoon.

Thunderstorms are likely to develop Thursday afternoon in western Minnesota and track eastward. Storms that develop could be strong to severe with isolated tornadoes, large hail and damaging wind gusts possible.

NOAA’s storm prediction center has a slight risk (level 2 of 5) for severe storms across portions of southern Minnesota extending southward.

The main threat of tornadoes looks to be just south of Minnesota Thursday afternoon and evening but an isolated tornado or two cannot be ruled out. Large hail and damaging wind gusts are probably the main threats for southern Minnesota.

Behind the thunderstorms will come some cooler air for Friday into the weekend and early next week. Temperatures won’t be as cold as last weekend but will rather be closer to normal. Highs Friday will be in the 60s and 50s mostly.

Another system may deliver rain late Sunday into Monday for southern Minnesota but forecast models differ on track for that disturbance.

It doesn’t get any better than this, Minnesota.

Our picture perfect spring air mass Tuesday brought highs in the 70s to much of Minnesota with some 80s again in the southwest.

That summery air mass to the southwest blows deeper into Minnesota Wednesday. Temperatures will feel more like July Wednesday afternoon around these parts.

But early season warmth in April usually comes with grass fire danger. There’s still a lot of dry grass from last season out there. The spring green up has not happened yet around much of Minnesota. Fire weather watches and red flag warnings cover most of Minnesota Wednesday.

Douglas-Todd-Morrison-Mille Lacs-Stearns-Benton-Sherburne-Wright- Carver-Scott-Le Sueur-Rice-Waseca-Steele-Freeborn-

1212 PM CDT Tue Apr 21 2026

...FIRE WEATHER WATCH IN EFFECT FROM WEDNESDAY AFTERNOON THROUGH WEDNESDAY EVENING...

The National Weather Service in the Twin Cities has issued a Fire Weather Watch.

* AFFECTED AREA...Portions of central, east central, south central, and west central Minnesota.

* TIMING...From Wednesday afternoon through Wednesday evening. * WINDS...South winds 15 to 20 mph with gusts up to 30 mph.

* RELATIVE HUMIDITY...Around 25 percent.

* IMPACTS...Any fires that develop will spread rapidly. Outdoor burning is not recommended.

Thursday severe risk

By Thursday, our southerly air flow will pump additional moisture in the Minnesota. Dew points in the 60s will fuel scattered storms ahead of an advancing cold front.

The European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts model seems to have a good handle on storms forming in western Minnesota and moving into eastern Minnesota Thursday afternoon and evening.

The forecast model loop below runs between 1 p.m. and 10 p.m. Thursday.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Storm Prediction Center lays out a slight risk (level 2 of 5) for severe storms packing high winds and hail Thursday from southwestern Minnesota all the way to Oklahoma. A lower marginal risk (1 of 5) zone covers most of the rest of Minnesota.

Here’s a closer look at the risk zone for southern Minnesota and the Twin Cities area.

So be ready for possible severe weather watches and warnings Thursday.

The weekend looks dry but much cooler again with highs in the 40s and 50s.
One of these weeks we’ll get the timing right for our current weather to arrive on a weekend.

Stay tuned.

The warmup continues as 70s return to most of southern Minnesota Tuesday. Wednesday will be windy and even warmer with widespread 80s. Storms are possible again Thursday.

High pressure brings sunshine Tuesday as temps warm even more

The climb upward in temperatures continues. We’ll see widespread highs in the 70s across southern Minnesota Tuesday with an 80-degree reading possible in the southwestern corner of the state.

The Arrowhead and North Shore will be cooler, in the 50s. Look for lots of sun thanks to high pressure and light winds.

It’ll be even warmer Wednesday as temperatures soar into the 80s across southern Minnesota. In the Twin Cities, it’ll be our second this month. We’ll start to see high cirrus clouds increase, filtering the sun some in the afternoon Wednesday but otherwise it’ll be sun-filled again.

Portions of western and southwestern Minnesota could reach 90 degrees. Some of our higher-resolution forecast models are pushing temperatures a bit higher in western areas of the state.

We are eyeing a potentially stormy setup for Thursday. An upper-level low will drop in the west, pushing not just warm air but more humid air north out ahead of it that could help fuel storms late Thursday as the system moves in.

Storms that develop could be strong to severe Thursday. NOAA’s Storm Prediction Center already has a slight risk (level 2 of 5) for severe storms across southern Minnesota Thursday afternoon and evening:

Behind the system, temps will drop once again. We’ll see highs back in the 50s and 60s in southern Minnesota with mostly 40s and some 50s north Friday into the weekend.

A red flag warning is in effect across parts of Minnesota Monday night as critical fire weather conditions continue, with an unseasonably warm stretch peaking midweek before storm chances return Thursday.

Critical fire weather Monday night

A combination of dry air, warm temperatures and gusty winds is creating critical fire weather conditions across much of Minnesota. A red flag warning remains in effect until 8 p.m. for the highlighted areas below.

Southerly winds will gradually weaken Monday evening, dropping to 5 to 15 mph after sunset.

Overnight temperatures will fall into the low 30s across northern Minnesota, with milder low 40s to the south.

Tuesday will remain dry with low humidity, but lighter winds should help limit fire danger. By Wednesday, though, winds pick up again as a low-pressure system develops over the western Plains, increasing fire concerns.

A summerlike warming trend builds into Tuesday and Wednesday, with highs in the 70s Tuesday and 80s returning Wednesday — the warmest day of the week.

Relief from the dry stretch may arrive Thursday as a cold front sweeps through the region, bringing showers and thunderstorms, especially across eastern Minnesota and western Wisconsin.

There is still some uncertainty regarding the exact timing and placement of storms, but current model data suggest the best chance for rainfall will come later Thursday into Thursday night.

A few storms could become strong to severe, with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Storm Prediction Center outlining a slight risk clipping southern Minnesota.

Behind the cold front Thursday, cooler and more seasonable conditions are expected to move in. Highs will drop back into the 50s by Friday and continue through the weekend as high pressure builds over the region.

After a chilly weekend, temperatures warm back up quickly early this week. Southern Minnesota will see 80s by Wednesday with more storms possible Thursday.

Temperatures trend upward quickly with more storms possible Thursday

It’s another cold start with most Minnesota locations starting out Monday near or below freezing, but we’ll warm quickly with sunshine.

While northern Minnesota will see more clouds, central and southern Minnesota should see lots of sun with some occasional high clouds filtering that sun. Highs will be in the 60s west with cooler pockets east.

There’s a red flag warning due to critical fire weather conditions Monday afternoon. The combination of warmer temperatures with blustery winds and low relative humidity means any fire could spread quickly.

Relative humidity could be as low as 15 to 25 percent for much of the state with wind gusts up to 20 to 35 mph, especially in western and northern Minnesota Monday afternoon.

It’ll be back in the 70s for southern Minnesota already tomorrow. Wednesday looks to be the peak of our next warmup with highs in the 80s for much of southern Minnesota once again.

Wednesday’s high temperatures will be 20 to 25 degrees above normal for central and southern Minnesota.

It’ll be another warm day Thursday. Yet another potent upper level low will drop into the Rockies, helping to push more muggy air back into Minnesota by Thursday.

Dew points by Thursday could be near 60 degrees again, enough moisture to produce thunderstorms that may become severe.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s National Severe Storms Laboratory’s experimental severe weather probability model forecasts a 10 to 15 percent chance of severe storms in southern Minnesota. This would equate to a potential slight risk, a level 2 of 5 severe threat if it holds.

As of Monday morning, NOAA’s Storm Prediction Center keeps the slight risk area just south of Minnesota for Thursday but we’ll need to continue to monitor the situation.

Behind it, cooler air moves back with with highs in the 50s and low 60s Friday into the weekend with another storm system possible by Sunday.

After a cold weekend, a quick surge of warmth and wind will elevate fire risk across western and central Minnesota on Monday. Summerlike temperatures arrive by midweek before storm chances return to the region later in the week.

Chilly night, fire weather concerns Monday

High pressure moving south out of Canada will bring clear skies and light winds Sunday evening.

Overnight lows will drop below freezing across the state, with upper teens to low 20s expected in northern Minnesota.

Temperatures will climb 15 to 20 degrees Monday as breezy southerly winds boost highs into the upper 60s out west and the 40s and 50s in eastern Minnesota.

Dry, warm conditions will bring an elevated fire weather threat to much of western and central Minnesota on Monday. The National Weather Service has issued a fire weather watch for the region.

...FIRE WEATHER WATCH IN EFFECT FROM MONDAY MORNING THROUGH MONDAY EVENING... The National Weather Service in the Twin Cities has issued a Fire Weather Watch. * AFFECTED AREA...Much of central and western Minnesota. * TIMING...From Monday morning through Monday evening. * WINDS...South winds 10 to 20 mph with gusts up to 30 mph. * RELATIVE HUMIDITY...Around 20 percent. * IMPACTS...Any fires that develop will spread rapidly. Outdoor burning is not recommended.

Tuesday and Wednesday will feature quiet conditions with sunshine and a warming trend. Highs will reach the 60s and 70s Tuesday, with 80s returning Wednesday.

Attention then turns to Thursday, when a low pressure system is expected to track from North Dakota into northern Minnesota. Its cold front will sweep across the state, bringing the best chances for showers and thunderstorms to eastern Minnesota and western Wisconsin. Some of these storms could be strong to severe.

A light coating of snow early Sunday will give way to sunshine and lighter winds. Temperatures stay on the chilly side before a warm-up arrives midweek.

White ground, blue skies this Sunday

A quick burst of light snow has coated grassy areas early Sunday as snow showers move off to the southeast. With any luck, these will be the last flakes of the season.

Sunshine takes over for the rest of the day, though it will remain on the cool side. Highs are expected to reach the upper 30s to low 40s in northern areas, with mid to upper 40s farther south.

Winds ease up compared to Saturday, but a few afternoon gusts around 20 mph can still be expected.

A warming trend begins early this week as high pressure builds in and a large ridge of warmer air expands eastward.

Monday’s temperatures will show a sharp contrast across the state. Eastern Minnesota will remain in the 40s and 50s, while warmer 70s begin to push into western areas.

Wednesday looks to be the warmest day of the week, as strong warm air advection pushes temperatures into the low to mid-80s across much of southern Minnesota.

As we’ve seen several times this spring, this early taste of summer won’t last long. A developing system moving out of the Rockies will track into the northern Plains late Wednesday into Thursday, pushing a cold front through the region. This will bring the return of showers and thunderstorms during the second half of the work week.

With warm and increasingly humid conditions ahead of the front, there is potential for strong to severe storms. Return Gulf moisture will help boost dew points into the 50s and 60s ahead of the cold front.

After a raw mid-April day, parts of Minnesota could see a quick hit of light snow before a dramatic warm-up arrives next week.

Light snow chances followed by another chilly day

High pressure moving in brought gusty winds Saturday, but those winds will ease into Saturday night as another chilly night sets in, with lows dropping below freezing statewide.

A quick-moving weather disturbance sliding southeast out of Canada could bring a brief round of light snow late Saturday night into early Sunday morning. The best chance for seeing flakes will be along and south of Interstate 94.

Cool conditions will stick around through Sunday, but a major shift is on the way as we head into the new workweek.

Temperatures will rebound sharply starting Monday, climbing well above seasonal averages. By Wednesday, highs are expected to range from the upper 60s in northern areas to the mid-80s across western Minnesota.

Storm chances return late in the week as the warm stretch peaks Wednesday into Thursday before a cold front moves in. That front will bring increasing cloud cover, cooler temperatures, and the next chance for rain.

A chilly air mass settles in behind Friday’s strong cold front, bringing breezy conditions and below-average temperatures through the weekend.

Chilly, breezy weekend ahead

High temperatures this weekend will struggle to climb into the 40s as a colder air mass settles across the Upper Midwest. On Saturday, highs will reach only the low 30s in northern areas, with low to mid-40s across central portions. The Twin Cities metro will top out in the mid-40s—about 10 degrees below the average high for mid-April.

Gusty northwest winds, developing as high pressure builds in from the west, will make for breezy conditions on Saturday. Wind gusts could reach or exceed 30 mph, especially across western Minnesota.

Late Saturday night into early Sunday morning, a weak disturbance could bring a few brief snow showers to central and southern areas. However, no accumulation is expected due to relatively warm ground temperatures and dry air in place.

Saturday night lows will fall below freezing statewide, with some areas dropping into the upper teens to mid-20s.

The cold air will linger into Sunday, with highs in the 30s and 40s and lighter winds compared to Saturday. After the chilly start to the weekend, a significant warm-up is on the way. Temperatures rebound into the 60s and 70s by Tuesday, along with a stretch of dry weather.

We’re also seeing continued improvement in drought conditions. The latest drought monitor update shows severe drought has been eliminated from the southwestern corner of the state, although just over half the state remains in some level of drought.

A powerful cold front spawned a line of severe storms with large hail, damaging winds, and tornadoes Friday.

Several tornado sightings came in from near Rochester across southeast Minnesota.

MnDOT traffic cams captured the smaller rope tornado early in the life cycle.

The tornado grew into a more robust and dangerous tornado as it moved east.

Multiple video clips came in from damaged areas.

The line of storms ran from the North Shore through western Wisconsin into southeast Minnesota Friday. Here are just some of the many storm reports.

• 2 ENE Two Harbors [Lake Co, MN] Public reports Hail of quarter size (M1.00 Inch) at 3:12 PM CDT -- Report via social media.

• 4 WSW Castle Danger [Lake Co, MN] Trained Spotter reports Hail of ping pong ball size (M1.50 Inch) at 3:20 PM CDT -- Majority of hail was three quarters to one inch in size but some pieces as large as 1.5 inches. Photo sent to NWS Duluth. Time estimated from radar.

• Hayward [Sawyer Co, WI] Emergency Mngr reports Tstm Wnd Dmg at 3:35 PM CDT -- Hayward Laundry on Dakota Ave had its roof torn off by the wind. No injuries reported.

• 8 WNW Minong [Washburn Co, WI] Mesonet reports Tstm Wnd Gst of M68 MPH at 3:28 PM CDT -- Mesonet station MRZW3 Minong RAWS. Time of wind gust estimated from radar.

• NNW Bay City [Pierce Co, WI] Trained Spotter reports Hail of half dollar size (M1.25 Inch) at 2:47 PM CDT -- Emailed photos of large hail in backyard. Time estimated via radar.

• 2 SW Minneapolis [Hennepin Co, MN] Public reports Hail of penny size (M0.75 Inch) at 2:18 PM CDT --

• N Stewartville [Olmsted Co, MN] Public reports Tornado at 2:32 PM CDT -- Rochester Tower reported tornado on the ground near Highway 63.

• 1 W Hayfield [Dodge Co, MN] Emergency Mngr reports Hail of golf ball size (M1.75 Inch) at 1:36 PM CDT --

• 2 N Elgin [Wabasha Co, MN] Public reports Tornado at 2:53 PM CDT -- Tornado touched down north of Elgin where it flipped a semi. It caused damage on 2 farmsteads. Ended 1 3/4 miles north of 247 near County Rd 2.

Additional damage reports are coming in late Friday. So far I’m hopeful because I haven’t seen any injury reports yet.

Tornado watches continue along the front from Wisconsin all the way to Oklahoma Friday evening!

Chilly weekend ahead

The temperature contrast behind this strong front was abrupt. Saturday brings blustery winds and much colder temperatures with 40s south and 30s north. Sunday will be mellow with lighter winds and more sun, but it will still feel more like March.

We warm up quickly next week with 70s pushing north once again.

A cold front will touch off showers, storms and even snow up north Friday. Some storms could be severe in southeastern Minnesota. A chilly weekend is on the way with warmer air again Monday.

Cold front drops temperatures into the weekend and produces storms, snow

A tornado watch has been issued for southeastern Minnesota into Iowa and Wisconsin through 8 p.m. Friday. Strong super cell thunderstorms could develop early to midafternoon, producing isolated tornadoes and very large hail up to baseball size.

A severe thunderstorm watch is also posted through 5 p.m. Friday for far eastern Minnesota into Wisconsin for the threat of severe thunderstorms.

There’s a slight risk (level 2 of 5) for severe storms in southeastern Minnesota into western Wisconsin Friday midday into the afternoon hours.

The greater risk, an enhanced risk (level 3 of 5) is primarily across central and southern Wisconsin into far southeastern Minnesota’s Houston and Winona counties.

The greater severe risk is east of most of the Twin Cities due to the timing of the front. There will some strong storms with hail in the morning hours but as things heat up and the front progresses east, storms will become more surface-based with a greater risk of producing isolated tornadoes, damaging wind gusts and large hail.

The potent cold front will produce a big temperature contrast from west to east today. High temperatures in the Twin Cities will be in the morning and then fall behind the front into the afternoon and evening.

The front will likely touch off scattered showers and thunderstorms across eastern Minnesota into Wisconsin. In northern Minnesota it will be a wintry mix. A light icy coating and a light coating of snow is possible Friday morning in northwestern Minnesota.

It will also be rather windy, first from the south and then the northwest in the afternoon Friday. Winds will be 15 to 30 mph.

The weekend will be chilly behind the front with highs Saturday mostly in the 40s and 30s. Sunday will be slightly warmer.

Next week brings a return of warmer temperatures. The pattern will be pretty quiet after Friday until perhaps late next week when the next storm system may move into the region.

Heads up for what could be the early bird storm special Friday.

A fast-moving cold front may spark strong to severe storms earlier than usual Friday across eastern Minnesota and Wisconsin.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Storm Prediction Center paints a marginal (low) severe weather risk for the Twin Cities but higher slight (level 2 of 5) and enhanced (level 3 of 5) risk zones to the east. (See the map at the top of the post)

Forecast models vary as usual a bit on timing the front. Some limit storm development until the front passes the Twin Cities to the east. But several models fire storms west of or over the Twin Cities and eastern Minnesota Friday morning and sweep them east into southeastern Minnesota and Wisconsin through the midday and afternoon hours.

Here’s NOAA’s NAM 3 km model solution between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. Friday:

Hazards with any storms that do reach severe levels include large hail and damaging winds. A few tornadoes cannot be ruled out Friday as the front sweeps eastward.

Temperatures ahead of the front will reach the 70s before quickly crashing back into the 50s. It will be chilly all day in the west with 30s once again in the far west.

The weekend will be chilly with highs in the 40s and 50s, but warmer air funnels in next week. Highs should reach the 70s again by next Tuesday and last most of next week.

Stay tuned.

Thursday is our statewide tornado drill day as part of Minnesota Severe Weather Awareness Week. The drill is designed to help schools, businesses and families practice what to do in the event of a tornado warning and to ensure everyone knows where to go for shelter.

When tornado sirens will sound

Outdoor warning sirens will sound during the drill times of 1:45 and 6:45 p.m. This is a great opportunity to review your severe weather plan and make sure you’re prepared ahead of the storm season.

Counties and cities control their own warning sirens, the National Weather Service does not activate them. Policies vary by location. Some areas sound sirens only for tornado warnings, while others also use them for severe thunderstorm warnings or damaging wind threats. In some communities, local officials may activate sirens anytime severe weather is a concern, even without a warning from the National Weather Service. Sirens typically sound for two to three minutes.

For details on when sirens are used in your area, check with local public safety officials.

Where to go during a tornado

During a tornado drill, you should go to a safe place just like you would in a real emergency. The best place to go is a basement or a storm shelter. If you don’t have a basement, move to a small interior room on the lowest level of your building, away from windows.

Stay away from doors and windows, and get under something sturdy if possible. Whether you are at school or at work, follow the emergency plan and go to the designated shelter area.

Practicing where to go during a drill helps you stay safe and act quickly if a real tornado occurs.

Knowing the difference between a tornado watch vs. warning

Understanding the difference between a tornado watch, warning and emergency is critical during severe weather season.

A tornado watch means conditions are favorable for tornadoes to develop. It does not mean a tornado is happening, but you should stay alert and be prepared in case weather conditions worsen.

A tornado warning means a tornado has been spotted by trained observers or indicated by radar. When a warning is issued, you should take immediate shelter in a safe location.

A tornado emergency is the highest level of alert. It means a confirmed, violent tornado is occurring and poses a severe threat to life and property. This is a rare but extremely dangerous situation requiring immediate action to protect yourself.

Temperatures will be 20 to 25 degrees above normal Thursday. A cold front will bring scattered showers Friday followed by much colder air for the weekend.

Warm Thursday with most highs in the 70s, but a cold front sweeps through Friday

Very warm air is back again Thursday. We’ll see sun for most and highs in the 70s across most of the state except the North Shore and northwestern Minnesota. Southwestern Minnesota will see low 80s. Those readings are 20 to 25 degrees warmer than normal.

Warm, dry and windy weather could create critical fire weather conditions Thursday afternoon in western Minnesota. A red flag warning is in effect there midday Thursday through the evening.

A potent cold front sweeps through Friday, dropping temperatures in western Minnesota. Our highest readings in the Twin Cities and eastern Minnesota will likely be midday before falling in the afternoon and evening hours.

That front will also touch off scattered showers and some thunderstorms as it moves through. Northwestern Minnesota could even see a wintry mix of light freezing rain and snow showers while most will see rain showers and even some thunder in southern Minnesota midday Friday into the afternoon.

There could be strong storms with even a couple of isolated severe storms Friday midday and afternoon ahead of the cold front. There’s a slight risk (level 2 of 5) of severe storms across southeast Minnesota into western Wisconsin.

There could also be a fresh coating of snow for some in far northern Minnesota Friday into Friday night.

It’ll be quite a bit colder for the weekend, especially Saturday. Highs Saturday will be mostly in the 40s and 30s while Sunday will be slightly warmer, mostly in the 50s and 40s.

Warmer temperatures return next week with 60s and 70s in southern Minnesota. The pattern remains pretty quiet until perhaps late next week when a storm system may move into the region.

Spring is winning on the weather maps. But it’s not a straight line.

Thursday brings what may be the nicest day of spring across Minnesota. We’ll enjoy plenty of sunshine, balmy south breezes and warmer temperatures more typical of June.

Highs Thursday will reach the 80s in southwest Minnesota Thursday afternoon with 70s well into the north country. There are a couple forecast models that crank out 80 degrees for the Twin Cities Thursday afternoon.

But enjoy the one-day summer interlude. A sharp cold front is on the way Friday.

The front will race through Minnesota quickly Friday. The front will sail through eastern Minnesota, including the Twin Cities, around midday. We’ll see 70s briefly ahead of the front, then temperatures will quickly crash into the 40s and 50s behind the passing front on gusty northwest winds.

Scattered showers and a few thunderstorms will fire along the front through the midday hours into afternoon.

The highest risk for severe weather is east of the Twin Cities into southeast Minnesota, Wisconsin and eastern Iowa.

Chilly weekend ahead

I wish the timing were better for the weekend ahead. Snow showers will fly behind the front, especially in northern Minnesota, Friday night and Saturday. Highs will stall in the 30s and 40s Saturday.

Sunday looks mellower with sunshine, lighter winds and highs around 50 in the Twin Cities.

Warmer again next week

Warmer air pushes back and will linger much of next week. Highs start in the 60s Monday, but 70s return by Tuesday and last much of next week.

It’s coming.

Mild temperatures through midweek will be replaced by strong storms and a sharp cooldown heading into the weekend.

Warming trend followed by drastic cooldown and storms

Our weather will remain mostly quiet through at least early Friday. Aside from a few light showers possible Wednesday across southeastern Minnesota, most areas will stay dry and any rainfall will be minimal.

Patchy fog developed overnight, especially across western through central Minnesota, but it should clear quickly early Wednesday morning. A dense fog advisory remains in effect until 9 a.m. for portions of northwestern, western and central Minnesota.

Above-average temperatures will continue under mostly sunny skies, with highs reaching the mid to upper 60s across much of the state and some low 70s in southwestern Minnesota. Along the North Shore, cooler conditions will persist, with temperatures in the 40s and 50s.

Temperatures will climb noticeably on Thursday as southerly winds strengthen ahead of an approaching system. Highs are expected to reach the 70s across central areas of the state, with lower 80s possible in western Minnesota, making it the warmest day of the week.

Conditions begin to change on Friday as a strong cold front moves into the region. Rain showers progress from northwest to southeast, but thunderstorms are expected Friday afternoon for eastern Minnesota into Wisconsin. There is a slight risk that some of these storms could become severe with the potential for damaging winds and large hail.

Behind the front, temperatures will fall rapidly. Areas that see highs in the 60s and 70s Friday afternoon could drop into the 20s and 30s by early Saturday morning.

The colder air will settle in for the weekend. Highs on Saturday may remain in the 30s, with a chance for scattered snow showers mainly across northern areas, though any accumulation appears limited at this time. The Twin Cities may see its last flakes of the season.

The Twin Cities National Weather Service Office sent survey teams into the field in southern Minnesota to asses Monday’s storm damage and tornado location on Tuesday.

The teams found evidence of at least three tornadoes. These were weaker tornadoes in open areas and thankfully caused relatively little damage.

Here are the preliminary results from the Twin Cities NWS.

At least three tornadoes occurred across southern Minnesota. Preliminary intensity results are EF-0 to low EF-1. We are continuing to work closely with local Emergency Management to determine the official tracks and ratings of each tornado.

• The first tornado occurred near Truman and tracked east towards Amboy at approximately 6:25 PM.

• Farther south around 7:20 PM, a tornado was caught on video by a trained spotter six miles W of Elmore.

• At approximately 8:05 PM, a third tornado was reported three miles SE of Matawan.

Damaging hail with anywhere from golf ball- to baseball-sized hail fell in dozens of locations Monday.

Severe risk moves south

The main severe weather zone has shifted south into Wednesday. A tornado watch covers most of Iowa into southern Wisconsin and northern Illinois Tuesday evening.

Here’s the severe weather risk zone for Wednesday.

The next severe risk for Minnesota arrives Friday afternoon. It’s too early for timing and coverage details, but here’s the potential risk zone Friday.

Thursday will be the nicest day this week. Highs will push into the 70s south once again under sunny skies and lighter winds.

Right now the weekend looks windy and much colder with snow possible north Saturday.

Enjoy the milder air for now.

Dense fog and low clouds have settled in following Monday night’s storms, creating a slow and gloomy start to the day. A stretch of warm temperatures and additional storm chances will continue through the week before a sharp cooldown arrives this weekend.

Foggy start, calmer conditions for Tuesday

A quiet but gloomy start is underway Tuesday morning, with low clouds and areas of dense fog across the region. A dense fog advisory remains in effect for the Duluth area, the Twin Cities and locations to the southeast until 9 a.m. The fog will be slow to clear, with gradual improvement expected closer to midday. Even after visibility improves, skies will remain mostly cloudy through much of the day.

Temperatures Tuesday afternoon will warm into the 60s and low 70s for central and southern Minnesota, with cooler 40s and 50s holding on across the north.

Most of the state will remain dry, aside from a few light rain showers early in northwestern Minnesota and the chance for a few thunderstorms brushing areas along Interstate 90.

Sunshine is back on Wednesday, along with a nice warmup into the 60s and 70s for most of the state. The North Shore will stay cooler in the 40s and 50s, but overall it’ll be a very pleasant day. A few rain showers may return to southern and eastern Minnesota as another system passes through.

Thursday will be the standout day of the week, with sunshine and southerly winds helping temperatures climb back into the 70s and 80s. Humidity will also increase, with dew points rising into the 50s and lower 60s.

By Friday, a stronger system moves in, bringing increasing moisture and a potent cold front. Thunderstorms are expected to develop during the afternoon, and the atmosphere may once again support severe weather. Behind this system, the weekend turns sharply cooler, with highs falling back into the 40s and a chance for light precipitation on Saturday.

It was a wild severe weather evening across southern Minnesota Monday.

Multiple severe thunderstorm and tornado warnings lit up the MPR Weather board. I can’t recall a night with this many warnings in a long time.

Here’s a select list of preliminary storm reports as of Monday evening with severe storms still in progress.

Tornado reports

NWS issued multiple tornado warnings Monday. This confirmed tornadic supercell produced the tornado west of Amboy, Minn.

• 6 W Elmore [Faribault Co., Minn.] Storm Chaser reports Tornado at 13 Apr, 7:20 PM CDT — Tornado on video. Location and time approximate.

Tornado warnings are still in progress as of this post.

Hail reports

Powerful updrafts in the storms produce numerous damaging hail reports across southern Minnesota.

• 6 SE Morristown [Steele Co., Minn.] Trained Spotter reports Hail of teacup size (M3.00 Inch) at April 13, 7:15 p.m. CDT — Photo with measured hail.

• 2 NE Owatonna [Steele Co., Minn.] Public reports Hail of 2.25 Inch at April 13, 7:45 p.m. CDT — Report from mPING: Hen Egg+ (2.25 in.).

• 2 W Amboy [Blue Earth Co., Minn.] Public reports Hail of tennis ball size (M2.50 Inch) at 6:44 p.m. CDT — Report from mPING: Tennis Ball (2.50 in.)

• Lake Crystal [Blue Earth Co., Minn.] Trained Spotter reports Hail of teacup size (M3.00 Inch) at April 13, 7:15 p.m. CDT

• 4 NNE Faribault [Rice Co., Minn.] Emergency Mngr reports Hail of teacup size (M3.00 Inch) at 3:53 p.m. CDT

Torrential rains have also triggered flash flood warnings. Our weather will quiet down with the severe risk limited to southeast Minnesota Tuesday.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Storm Prediction Center has issued a tornado watch that includes southeastern Minnesota and parts of western Wisconsin until 10 p.m.

The watch zone includes areas just south of the Twin Cities through the Interstate 90 corridor into northern Iowa including Mankato, Owatonna, Waseca, Austin, Albert Lea, Rochester, Red Wing and Winona.

Severe storms with damaging winds, large hail 2 to 3 inches in diameter, and a few tornadoes are possible in the watch zone. Here’s the Storm Prediction Center information:

URGENT - IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED

Tornado Watch Number 103 NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK

310 PM CDT Mon Apr 13 2026 The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

* Tornado Watch for portions of Northern Iowa Southern Minnesota Central Wisconsin Lake Michigan

* Effective this Monday afternoon and evening from 310 PM until 1000 PM CDT.

* Primary threats include... A few tornadoes likely with a couple intense tornadoes possible Widespread large hail and isolated very large hail events to 3 inches in diameter likely Scattered damaging wind gusts to 70 mph possible

SUMMARY...Thunderstorms are expected to rapidly develop this afternoon along a warm front across the watch area. Supercells capable of very large hail and tornadoes are possible. A strong tornado is possible. The tornado watch area is approximately along and 50 statute miles north and south of a line from 30 miles west northwest of Fairmont MN to 20 miles east northeast of Oshkosh WI.

Stay alert for warnings through tonight.

The atmosphere is setting the stage for strong to severe thunderstorms Monday afternoon and evening, with the highest risk south of a line from Redwood Falls through the Twin Cities to Eau Claire, Wis.

Active weather week ahead: Severe storms possible Monday afternoon and evening

If you’re in southern Minnesota or western Wisconsin, Monday is a day to stay weather-aware. The Storm Prediction Center has highlighted an area from Redwood Falls east through the Twin Cities and Eau Claire, Wis., including areas south, with an enhanced risk (level 3 out of 5). This means the atmosphere has all the ingredients in place for what could become a volatile weather day.

Timing of the storms

Storms are expected to develop between 3 and 6 p.m. and continue into the evening hours. The most intense activity will likely occur within a 2–3 hour window after storms first form, so things could escalate quickly.

The main threats include large hail, potentially as big as tennis balls or even baseballs, along with damaging wind gusts and a few tornadoes.

Early storms may remain more isolated as supercells, but as the evening progresses, storms may merge into clusters and shift the primary threat toward strong winds.

Temperatures and dew points will surge northward with the advancing warm front. Highs will climb into the mid to upper 70s across southern areas, while cooler 50s and 60s linger north of the boundary.

Conditions quiet down on Tuesday with dry weather expected locally while storms develop farther to the southeast. However, the break will be brief. Another system will bring chances for showers and thunderstorms back to the region Wednesday afternoon and evening, especially across southern and eastern Minnesota into Wisconsin.

Looking ahead to Friday, another round of strong to severe storms is possible. A warm and humid air mass will build ahead of a strong cold front, and thunderstorms are expected to develop during the afternoon.

Severe weather awareness week

Severe Weather Awareness Week begins Monday, and we’re starting with one of the most important topics: alerts and warnings.

It is important to know the difference between a watch and a warning when it comes to severe weather. A watch is issued when conditions are favorable for tornadoes, severe thunderstorms or flash floods. If you're in a watch area, you can continue with normal activities, but it's important to stay alert and make plans to seek shelter if necessary.

Warnings are issued when severe weather has been reported or is imminent. Warnings are issued by county and city names, so it's important to know the name of the county you live in or are visiting and the surrounding cities.

Tacos are a great way to explain the difference between a watch and a warning. A watch means we have all the ingredients ready to make tacos, while a warning means we’re eating tacos right now!

Unseasonably warm overnight temperatures are settling in, with lows holding in the 50s and 60s ahead of a more active weather pattern. An enhanced risk for severe storms covers the southern half of the state.

Warm overnight, stormy Monday with an increased threat of severe

Clear skies and mild temperatures are expected to persist overnight Sunday into early Monday as a ridge of high pressure moves through. By Monday morning, however, changes will begin to take shape as a cold front drops south toward the Minnesota-Iowa border. Lows will fall only into the 40s and 50s, about 20 degrees above average.

Northern Minnesota will hold onto lingering cloud cover, along with a chance for showers and thunderstorms, mainly in the Arrowhead region, keeping low temperatures in the 30s.

Clouds will increase through the day Monday, with temperatures cooling slightly into the mid-60s to upper 70s. At the same time, moisture will quickly return, with dew points climbing back into the lower 60s.

The Storm Prediction Center has upgraded the forecast area to an enhanced risk, or level 3 out of 5, for storms developing late in the afternoon. Some of these storms could become severe, with large hail and damaging wind gusts as the primary threats. Hail larger than 2 inches in diameter will be possible in the strongest storms.

The situation will need to be monitored closely Monday, as the location of the frontal boundary will determine where storms develop and where the greatest severe threat occurs.

Lingering showers may persist into Tuesday, particularly across southern Minnesota and western Wisconsin, as another area of low pressure develops over the central Plains and tracks northeast. This system could bring additional rounds of non-severe thunderstorms into Wednesday.

A brief break in active weather is expected late Wednesday into Thursday before another strong system arrives Friday. That system is expected to bring another round of showers and thunderstorms, followed by a sharp drop in temperatures heading into next weekend.

Summerlike warmth returns Sunday despite a cloudy start, with dry conditions expected before severe weather chances arrive early this week.

Cloudy start, dry conditions expected with summerlike temperatures

Saturday’s soggy conditions brought decent rainfall to the Twin Cities metro, with periods of light to moderate rain adding up through the day and evening. Many areas recorded between a quarter inch and as much as three-quarters of an inch, providing a soaking rain across much of the region.

Temperatures and dew points have been steadily rising since late Saturday night, with early Sunday readings already showing dew points in the low 60s across southern Minnesota. Because of the increase in moisture, dense fog has developed across northern areas. A dense fog advisory remains in effect until 10 a.m. for northwestern Minnesota.

After a cloudy start, skies will begin to clear, allowing temperatures to surge into the 70s and even low 80s. Farther north, highs will be cooler but still above average for this time of year, ranging from the mid-50s to upper 60s.

A low-pressure system will track east from the Red River Valley into northern Minnesota, keeping cloud cover and the chance for showers and thunderstorms across the northern part of the state. Some storms could get a little bumpy in the Arrowhead region late Sunday afternoon into the early evening.

Severe weather threat on Monday

Severe weather potential increases Monday afternoon. The Storm Prediction Center continues a slight risk — or level 2 out of 5 — across much of the region, with all hazards possible.

A stalled boundary will lift north as a warm front Monday, returning moisture to the area with dew points climbing back into the 50s and 60s. The front is expected to stall somewhere across southern Minnesota, where it will become the focus for storm development late in the day.

Conditions will briefly dry out late Monday night into Tuesday before another system arrives. On Tuesday, a low-pressure system will track from Nebraska through Iowa, likely keeping the greatest severe threat to the south and east, while bringing scattered showers and thunderstorms to the area.

Temperatures will remain warm, with highs in the 70s Tuesday and cooling slightly into the 60s to low 70s by Wednesday under mostly sunny skies.

After a cool, damp start to the weekend, a warmup arrives Sunday with highs reaching the 70s and 80s. Dew points will rise into the 50s and low 60s Saturday night, bringing more humid conditions.

Rising overnight temperatures and dew points

Scattered showers and a few rumbles of thunder will continue moving east Saturday night. A surge of warm air will push temperatures higher overnight. Dew points will also climb into the 50s and low 60s by Sunday, bringing more humid conditions.

Depending on how quickly clouds clear Sunday, temperatures could climb to summerlike levels in the 70s and even low 80s, about a 30-degree warmup from Saturday.

Light showers and a few rumbles of thunder will continue Saturday night into early Sunday morning. Much of Sunday is expected to be dry, with clouds and rain remaining closer to a low-pressure system near the Canadian border.

A more favorable setup for severe weather is expected Monday. A warm front will lift north during the afternoon, likely triggering storms along the boundary.

The Storm Prediction Center has issued a slight risk, or level 2 out of 5, for southern and central Minnesota. As storms intensify Monday afternoon and evening, all severe hazards are possible, including damaging winds, large hail and isolated tornadoes.

Tuesday presents a similar setup, though the greatest severe weather potential may shift farther south and east. Still, strong to severe storms remain possible.

The rest of the week is expected to stay mild, with highs in the 70s and periodic chances for showers and thunderstorms. Looking ahead, a stronger system may arrive next weekend, and some of its precipitation could fall as a mix rather than all rain.

Rain showers and overcast skies are expected Saturday, followed by a humid, warm and increasingly stormy pattern that could bring chances for severe weather across the state.

Scattered showers and slightly cooler temperatures

High pressure will move east into the Great Lakes as a warm front lifts north, bringing expanding rain showers into the area from the southwest on Saturday.

Rainfall rates will increase late in the afternoon into the early evening, with areas in eastern Minnesota and into Wisconsin receiving more than a quarter inch of rain.

Temperatures will warm to slightly below seasonal levels, reaching the upper 40s to low 50s across the state.

Rain will taper off overnight as the system moves east, but areas of drizzle and fog are likely to develop as temperatures and humidity increase.

Sunday is shaping up to be warmer, with improving conditions. Rain should end in Minnesota by early morning and exit western Wisconsin by early afternoon. Depending on how quickly skies clear, temperatures could climb into the lower 80s. If clouds linger, highs may remain in the 70s.

Dew points in the upper 50s to low 60s will surge north, bringing increasingly humid conditions to southern Minnesota from Sunday into Monday. We’ll see our first 60-degree dew point readings of the year.

The increase in moisture will help fuel stronger thunderstorms Monday and Tuesday.

The Storm Prediction Center has issued a slight risk, or level 2 out of 5, for southern Minnesota, including the Twin Cities metro area, on Monday. All types of severe weather are possible, including large hail, damaging winds and isolated tornadoes.

Storms could develop as early as Monday afternoon into the early evening, and will be something to keep an eye on. Next week also marks the start of severe weather awareness week.

Tuesday’s forecast remains less certain, but another round of strong to severe storms is possible, especially in southern Minnesota, as a low-pressure system moves through the region.

True spring has spring on the forecast maps. Our weather pattern takes a clear turn toward more springlike weather over the next week.

Yes, we could still get colder days and snow is not out of the question around Minnesota into May. But I see many more days in the 60s, 70s, and even 80s ahead in the next couple of weeks.

There’s also a growing risk for a few strong to possibly severe storms in the coming days.

Let’s breakdown the week ahead.

Sunday warm front

The weekend starts cool but clear into early Saturday. Most of Saturday morning will be dry, but a few scattered showers may push into Minnesota from the south by Saturday afternoon.

The most favored time for scattered downpours and a few thunderstorms still looks like Saturday evening into Sunday morning.

Then much of central and southern Minnesota works into the warm sector of the system behind a powerful warm front by Sunday afternoon. The European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts model shows the trends between 7 a.m. Saturday and 7 p.m. Sunday:

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Storm Prediction Center has a marginal (low) risk for a severe cell Sunday.

Sunday afternoon’s inbound air mass and stronger April sunshine look capable of boosting temperatures into the lower 80s in southern Minnesota Sunday afternoon!

If we hit 80 degrees Sunday at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport it will be the warmest day in six months since we hit 91 degrees on Oct. 4.

We topped out at 79 degrees on March 21 at MSP this year. The average date for the first 80 degree temperature of the year in the Twin Cities is around May 3. So we’re way ahead of schedule if we get there Sunday.

Severe risk Monday?

Our June preview continues Monday. Highs again will run in the 70s to low 80s in the south Monday.

Dew points in the 60s in southeastern Minnesota will provide fuel for the next wave to spawn some strong thunderstorms Monday afternoon and evening.

The European model is cranking out some potentially nasty red blobs Monday in southern Minnesota.

NOAA’s Storm Prediction Center has already laid out the risk zone for a potential severe weather outbreak through the central U.S. Monday:

Here’s a closer look at southern Minnesota.

Tuesday may bring another wave of storms in the south.

So pick your good weather spots this weekend, like Sunday afternoon. And get ready for some strange vibrant colors on the Doppler as we move through the next several days.

Stay tuned.

High pressure will bring sunshine for most Friday. Warmer and more humid air will start moving north Saturday, increasing shower chances and creating stormy weather by Monday.

Lots of sun Friday. But as warmer, more-humid air moves in, storm chances increase

We have a nice, sun-filled Friday thanks to high pressure. Temperatures will be near normal, mostly in the 50s and 40s. Northeast Minnesota will see a few scattered clouds.

Temperatures will be similar Saturday, but with increased cloud cover as warmer and more-humid air starts to move north from the Gulf. This will increase the chance of some scattered showers by midday Saturday and Saturday afternoon.

Considerably warmer air moves in for Sunday and Monday. Highs will reach well into the 70s with even some low 80s in southwest Minnesota by Sunday afternoon.

We’ll also see our first 60-degree dew points by late Sunday in portions of southern Minnesota — our highest dew points of spring so far.

A series of disturbances will create scattered showers and storms Sunday mainly for northern Minnesota with spotty activity south. More storms will be possible late Monday as another disturbance takes advantage of a stalled frontal boundary.

We’ll have to watch for potential severe weather in southern Minnesota Sunday and Monday. NOAA’s Storm Prediction Center is already monitoring the southern half of Minnesota, western Wisconsin and down to Texas for strong to severe storms.

We’ll have more scattered showers and thunderstorms Tuesday and Wednesday as a slow-moving area of low pressure continues to make things unsettled. Total precipitation could be significant — up to 1 to 3 inches for parts of eastern Minnesota into Wisconsin.

Temperatures will be cooler gradually for midweek next week also.