St. Paul, Minn. – Minnesota residents are bracing for a dangerous combination of triple-digit heat index values and severe thunderstorms across much of the state through late Wednesday night.
According to the National Weather Service Twin Cities, heat index values will climb as high as 103°F in Mankato, Fairmont, and Albert Lea by mid-afternoon, with the Twin Cities, Red Wing, and Madison also topping 95°F until at least 7 p.m. Thunderstorms are expected to intensify this afternoon and evening, with a few storms capable of producing damaging winds or even tornadoes.
Redwood Falls, Eau Claire, and New Richmond can expect sustained high humidity and temperatures pushing into the upper 90s, making outdoor activities hazardous. Scattered storms could trigger flash flooding, especially along major highways including I-35, I-90, and U.S. 169. Residents should avoid non-essential travel during severe storms and heat, charge mobile devices, and check on vulnerable neighbors.
This bout of heat and humidity follows a recent stretch of cooler weather, marking the hottest day so far this summer for many communities. Severe weather alerts may be extended as storms move east overnight, so stay tuned for updates and heed all local warnings through early Thursday.
