Minneapolis, Minnesota – Thunderstorms could rapidly intensify across the Twin Cities by midday Friday, with the highest severe threat building between noon and 4 p.m. as storms track east into Wisconsin.
According to the National Weather Service in the Twin Cities, scattered storms will begin developing late this morning across southern Minnesota, with activity increasing in coverage and intensity through the afternoon. Some storms may produce hail larger than 2 inches in diameter, damaging wind gusts, and a few tornadoes, especially in eastern Minnesota and western Wisconsin.
Cities including Minneapolis, St. Paul, Mankato, and Red Wing could see storm chances spike to 70–90% during peak hours, with the strongest cells pushing toward Eau Claire and western Wisconsin by late afternoon. Roads such as I-94 and Highway 52 may see sudden visibility drops and ponding water during heavy downpours.
Residents are urged to monitor warnings closely, have multiple ways to receive alerts, and be ready to take shelter quickly if storms intensify. Outdoor plans should be adjusted ahead of the midday window.
Conditions shift quickly behind the storms, with a sharp drop in temperatures into the weekend. Highs will fall into the 40s Saturday with gusty winds and even a chance for flurries before calmer, cool sunshine returns Sunday.
