Mankato, MN – Severe storms are set to sweep through southern Minnesota overnight, bringing the threat of 70 mph winds, large hail, and isolated power outages across 17 counties until 3 a.m. Saturday. Residents from Blue Earth to Redwood County could see intense lightning, downed trees, and hazardous travel as the system moves east.
According to the National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center, a Severe Thunderstorm Watch remains in effect for Blue Earth, Lyon, Cottonwood, Faribault, and surrounding areas through early morning. Officials warn that scattered storms could rapidly intensify, producing wind gusts strong enough to topple branches and snap power lines.
Cities including Mankato, Marshall, Worthington, and Pipestone may experience brief torrential downpours, road flooding, and dangerous crosswinds along U.S. Highway 14, Interstate 90, and local county roads. Emergency managers urge drivers to delay non-essential travel, secure loose outdoor items, and charge mobile devices in case of outages.
This watch includes the season’s most widespread severe risk so far for southwest Minnesota, with impacts possibly reaching into Iowa by sunrise. The threat will gradually decrease after 3 a.m., but additional watches or warnings could be issued if storms persist into Saturday morning. Stay tuned for updates from the NWS and local agencies.
