Weather
St. Paul, MN Freeze Warning: Lows Near 28° Saturday, Oct. 17
MINNEAPOLIS, MN – A widespread frost and freeze threat is developing across Minnesota and western Wisconsin late Friday, October 16, with temperatures expected to fall as low as 28 degrees in some com
By Evan Cross · 2026-10-16T10:22:20.712Z
MINNEAPOLIS, MN – A widespread frost and freeze threat is developing across Minnesota and western Wisconsin late Friday, October 16, with temperatures expected to fall as low as 28 degrees in some communities by early Saturday morning, October 17. Residents are being urged to protect sensitive plants and outdoor watering systems before the overnight cold arrives.
According to the National Weather Service Twin Cities office, a Freeze Warning is in effect across southern Minnesota and western Wisconsin, where temperatures are likely to drop below freezing overnight.
The agency expects widespread frost across much of the region, with Saturday morning temperatures generally ranging from 28 to 32 degrees in the coldest locations.
The warning area includes much of southern Minnesota and portions of the Twin Cities region , extending eastward into western Wisconsin. Communities around Mankato, Owatonna and Eau Claire are among the areas facing freezing conditions.
Farther west and across portions of central Minnesota, a Freeze Watch remains in effect, including areas near St. Cloud, Willmar and Alexandria.
Forecasters say increasing southwest winds late Friday night could prevent temperatures from falling as sharply in some western and central communities.
Gusty winds experienced earlier Friday are expected to diminish during the afternoon, becoming light by nighttime.
The greatest immediate concern is damage to cold sensitive vegetation. Tender plants, flowers and gardens could suffer damage if temperatures fall below freezing for an extended period.
Residents should bring potted plants indoors, cover vulnerable vegetation and drain outdoor watering systems where necessary.
The temperature drop also serves as a reminder that autumn conditions are rapidly changing across the Upper Midwest.
Because overnight temperatures can vary by location, residents should check their specific county's warning or watch status before making weekend plans.
Updated forecasts and weather alerts are available through the National Weather Service at weather.gov/mpx.