Minneapolis, Minnesota – A smoky haze continues to soften the Minneapolis skyline, while the July sun steadily turns up the heat. Air quality remains a concern this morning, and another round of summer weather is set to unfold as temperatures surge through the afternoon.
Wildfire smoke, dangerous heat, and a chance of thunderstorms are creating a busy weather day across eastern and southern Minnesota. According to the National Weather Service in Chanhassen, a Heat Advisory remains in effect from noon until 6 p.m. Monday, with heat index values reaching 95 to 100 degrees, including around 98 degrees in the Twin Cities.
An Air Quality Alert also remains in effect through 11 a.m. Monday as smoke from Canadian wildfires keeps air quality in the Unhealthy category for portions of east-central, southeast, south-central, and northeast Minnesota. Sensitive groups, including children, older adults, and people with heart or lung disease, should limit prolonged outdoor activity.
Monday’s high will climb to 94 degrees before slightly drier air begins arriving later in the day. Winds could gust up to 30 mph, helping improve air quality by evening while also creating challenging conditions for high-profile vehicles on I-94, I-35W, I-394, and Highway 169.
Meteorologists are also watching for a few thunderstorms through the day. While widespread severe weather is not expected across the Twin Cities, a few storms could produce gusty winds. An isolated tornado cannot be completely ruled out in the broader region, although the primary concern remains localized wind damage.
Conditions improve noticeably Tuesday with sunshine and a high near 82 degrees. Wednesday stays pleasant with highs around 81 degrees, offering a welcome break from Monday’s heat before warmer weather returns later in the week. Long-range outlooks continue to favor above-normal temperatures into late next week.
Stay hydrated, reduce strenuous afternoon activities, and monitor updated air quality reports before spending extended time outdoors.
Five-Day Forecast for Minneapolis, Minnesota
- Monday: Showers ending, then mostly sunny and hot. High 94°F. Heat index near 98°F. Low 69°F.
- Tuesday: Mostly sunny. High 82°F. Low 60°F.
- Wednesday: Sunny. High 81°F. Low 62°F.
- Thursday: Sunny. High 86°F. Low 66°F.
- Friday: Sunny. High 86°F.
