Minneapolis, Minn. – Thunderstorms will bring rounds of heavy rain and lightning across Minnesota through Saturday night, raising concerns for travel and outdoor plans in the Twin Cities and surrounding areas.
According to the National Weather Service, storms will build Thursday afternoon and continue into Friday, with rainfall totals between a quarter and half an inch possible in Minneapolis, St. Paul, and nearby counties. Friday night carries the highest threat for thunderstorms, including heavy downpours that may briefly cause localized street flooding.
Communities stretching from Bloomington to Brooklyn Park should prepare for slick road conditions during evening commutes, while those heading to high school football games or late-night events Friday may encounter lightning delays. Outdoor activities on lakes across Hennepin and Ramsey counties will also be impacted by shifting winds and storms that could redevelop into Saturday.
The unsettled weather is expected to last through Saturday night before easing by Sunday, when drier conditions return. Residents are urged to limit non-essential travel during periods of heavy rain and to secure outdoor items ahead of gusty thunderstorm winds.
Warnings and advisories may be updated as storms evolve, with the strongest cells likely Friday evening into early Saturday.
Five Day Forecast for Minneapolis, Minn.
- Thursday: Showers and storms after 1 p.m., high near 79°F.
- Friday: Showers and storms likely, high 72°F. Heavy rain possible at night.
- Saturday: Chance of showers and storms, partly sunny, high 72°F.
- Sunday: Showers tapering off, partly sunny, high 76°F.
- Monday: Mostly sunny, warmer, high near 78°F.
