Minneapolis, MN – As Minnesota heads into Black Friday weekend, state weather officials are urging Minneapolis-area homeowners to finalize winter preparations ahead of another round of freezing nighttime temperatures expected to sweep across the region.
According to the National Weather Service (NWS), La Niña is likely to create stronger freeze–thaw cycles across the Upper Midwest this season. Minneapolis, St. Paul, and surrounding Hennepin and Ramsey counties could see temperatures fall into the teens and low 20s late Friday into early Saturday—conditions that increase the risk of burst pipes, roof ice, and heating system failures.
Home maintenance specialists recommend residents focus on the most crucial tasks this week. That includes insulating exposed pipes, especially in older Minneapolis homes and duplexes where basement and crawl-space piping is more vulnerable to freezing. Clearing gutters and downspouts is also essential, as early-season ice dams can form quickly when meltwater refreezes overnight.
Energy experts urge homeowners to seal drafty windows and doors, check attic insulation levels, and test furnace performance before the colder December pattern arrives. Minneapolis fire officials also stress testing smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors, noting that heating-related emergencies historically increase statewide following Thanksgiving.
Residents using wood stoves or fireplaces should ensure chimneys are clear and properly vented, especially with more families gathering through the holiday weekend.
Emergency managers recommend checking on older adults or neighbors who may need help completing winter prep before temperatures fall across the Twin Cities.
