Minneapolis, Minnesota – Hot and humid conditions are fueling a heightened tornado risk across much of Minnesota, with severe thunderstorms threatening the Twin Cities and central regions from Tuesday afternoon into early Thursday morning.
According to the National Weather Service Twin Cities, storms are expected to intensify late Tuesday, bringing the potential for tornadoes, damaging wind gusts up to 70 mph, and large hail. The severe weather threat (Level 2 out of 5) is highest along and northwest of a line from St. Cloud through Alexandria, impacting key corridors including I-94 and US-10. The tornado risk is most pronounced overnight, when storms could become fast-moving and difficult to track in the dark.
Cities including Minneapolis, St. Paul, Mankato, and Brainerd should prepare for sudden warnings. Power outages and downed trees are possible, especially where winds exceed 60 mph. Residents are urged to charge mobile devices, secure outdoor items, and have multiple ways to receive weather alerts—especially overnight when tornadoes may be harder to detect.
While heat indices in the Twin Cities soared to near 100°F Tuesday, the greater danger remains with tonight’s storms. The severe risk will persist into Wednesday, with additional rounds of thunderstorms possible through early Thursday morning.
Stay alert: Additional watches and warnings could be issued at any time as storms evolve.
