Minneapolis, Minnesota – A combination of extreme heat and strong to severe thunderstorms is expected to impact much of Minnesota and western Wisconsin through Friday and Saturday, with the Twin Cities region under elevated risk for power outages, flash flooding, and damaging winds.
According to the National Weather Service Twin Cities, widespread heat impacts will peak Friday, with temperatures climbing into the low 90s and heat index values pushing 100°F across central and southern Minnesota. A major heat risk has been issued for much of the region, where anyone without access to cooling or hydration could face heat-related illness.
Simultaneously, a round of severe storms is likely Thursday night into Friday, particularly along the Minnesota–South Dakota border. By Friday, stronger storms could bring damaging wind gusts and large hail, especially west of I-35. Areas near Alexandria, Willmar, and Montevideo fall under a Level 2 “Slight Risk” zone, with metro areas like Minneapolis and St. Paul in a Level 1 “Marginal Risk.”
Localized downpours may also lead to poor drainage flooding in urban areas. Residents should stay weather-aware, have alerts enabled, and avoid outdoor activity during peak afternoon heat Friday.
Heat and storm threats will persist into Saturday before cooler, unsettled weather returns Sunday.
Five-Day Forecast for Minneapolis, Minnesota:
- Wednesday: High 83°F / Low 68°F — Morning showers, afternoon storms possible
- Thursday: High 88°F / Low 73°F — Chance of storms, some could be strong
- Friday: High 94°F / Low 72°F — Hot and humid, severe storms possible in evening
- Saturday: High 87°F / Low 63°F — Storms and showers likely
- Sunday: High 84°F / Low 62°F — Scattered storms and showers possible
