Minneapolis, Minnesota – Strong wind gusts topping 50 mph could make driving hazardous along I-94 and across southern Minnesota this Friday. With scattered showers and a chance for isolated thunderstorms, travelers should plan for slower commutes and intermittent visibility issues.
According to the National Weather Service in the Twin Cities, strong southwest winds will sweep through the region Friday, shifting westward and continuing into Saturday. Gusts as high as 50 mph are expected across southern and central Minnesota, including Hennepin, Dakota, and Ramsey counties. Western Wisconsin faces a heightened storm threat this afternoon, with tornadoes, damaging winds, and large hail possible.
In Minneapolis and St. Paul, breezy conditions dominate Friday with a high near 66°F. Rain becomes more likely Friday night, with heavier showers expected in the evening. By Saturday, skies should begin to clear, though cooler temperatures are on the way.
The National Weather Service recommends residents secure outdoor objects and avoid unnecessary highway travel, especially near open roads and bridges. Spotters in western Wisconsin should remain alert for activation.
Looking ahead, mostly sunny skies return by Sunday, with highs in the 60s. Rain chances rise again Monday and Wednesday, with gusty winds persisting through early next week.
Five-Day Twin Cities Forecast:
Saturday: Mostly cloudy, high 66°F, winds NW up to 25 mph
Sunday: Mostly sunny, high 63°F
Monday: Slight chance of storms, high 62°F
Tuesday: Chance of showers, high 63°F
Wednesday: Showers likely, high 64°F
Warnings remain in effect through Saturday night, with the next update expected by Saturday morning.
