Willmar, Minn. – A dangerous heat wave is taking hold across central and southern Minnesota, with heat index values expected to soar above 105° from Saturday afternoon through Sunday night. Residents in cities like Willmar, Hutchinson, and Albert Lea will feel the brunt of this oppressive heat, as overnight temperatures stay stubbornly high in the 70s and 80s, offering little relief.
According to the National Weather Service in Chanhassen, a Heat Advisory begins at 2 p.m. Friday and runs through noon Saturday. That will be immediately followed by an Extreme Heat Warning from noon Saturday through 9 p.m. Sunday. Affected counties include Stevens, Swift, Kandiyohi, Meeker, McLeod, Sibley, Le Sueur, Waseca, and Freeborn.
Daily life may grind to a halt for vulnerable populations and outdoor workers. Roads, schools, and city services in towns like Litchfield, Gaylord, and Waseca may scale back operations as heat indices approach 110°. Health officials urge residents to drink water frequently, limit outdoor activity, and check in on elderly neighbors.
This will be the most intense heat event of the season so far for much of the region. Cooling centers may open if conditions worsen, and additional advisories are possible through early next week.
Warnings remain in effect through Sunday night. More updates will follow if the heat intensifies or expands.
