Minneapolis, Minnesota – Patchy smoke and a surge of heat are bringing challenging conditions to the Twin Cities this week, with highs near 90°F and a growing risk for strong thunderstorms by Wednesday night. Residents from Minneapolis to St. Paul should brace for elevated air quality concerns through Tuesday morning, followed by an intensifying heat wave and a 40% chance for disruptive storms midweek.
According to the National Weather Service, smoky skies will persist through early Tuesday, with daytime highs surging to 81°F by Tuesday afternoon. The heat will continue building through Thursday, pushing temperatures to 88°F and then spiking to a steamy 92°F by Friday. A round of thunderstorms is likely Wednesday afternoon into Wednesday night, with the main threat for lightning, heavy rain, and sudden gusty winds across the Twin Cities, Bloomington, and Maple Grove. The risk of showers continues into early Friday, especially after midnight, before drier weather returns to close out the workweek.
Drivers should expect patchy smoke to impact visibility and air quality during morning commutes, especially on major roadways like I-35W and Highway 62. Stay indoors if you’re sensitive to smoke, and consider delaying outdoor plans until after 10 a.m. Wednesday’s storms may lead to brief power outages or delays; have a backup plan and check for updates if traveling.
The heat and smoke are expected to gradually ease after Friday, but scattered storms could linger into Saturday. Stay alert for new advisories and check back for updates as summer’s volatility continues.
Five Day Forecast for Minneapolis, Minnesota:
- Tuesday: Patchy smoke early, then mostly sunny. High 81°F.
- Wednesday: 30% chance of showers and storms after noon. High 83°F.
- Thursday: Mostly sunny and hot. High 88°F.
- Friday: Mostly sunny, high near 92°F. Storm risk returns after midnight.
- Saturday: 40% chance of storms. High 84°F.
