Minneapolis, Minnesota – A sharp temperature divide will take shape across the Upper Midwest by Thursday, with warmer air building into Minnesota and South Dakota while cooler conditions persist across North Dakota and Montana, all ahead of a significant high wind event.
According to the National Weather Service and NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center, Minnesota and South Dakota fall within a 70 to 80 percent probability zone for above-normal temperatures from April 16 through April 20. In contrast, North Dakota and much of Montana sit in a 40 to 50 percent chance of below-normal temperatures, creating a noticeable north-to-west contrast.
In Minneapolis and across Hennepin and Ramsey counties, highs are expected to reach 80 to 85°F between 2 p.m. and 6 p.m., with overnight lows in the upper 50s. Sioux Falls and much of South Dakota will see similar warmth. Meanwhile, Fargo and much of North Dakota will remain cooler, with highs in the upper 50s to low 60s. In Montana, including Billings, highs will range from the mid-50s to mid-60s with cooler mornings.
Conditions will shift beginning April 18 as a powerful central U.S. system develops. Wind gusts are expected to increase to 35 to 45 mph across the region, especially along the I-29 and I-94 corridors. These winds could create hazardous travel for high-profile vehicles and lead to rapidly changing conditions across open plains.
Montana and the Dakotas may also see blowing dust and reduced visibility in rural areas, while Minnesota could see increasing chances for rain and thunderstorms late in the period.
Residents should secure loose outdoor items and stay alert for changing weather. Drivers should prepare for strong crosswinds, especially on north-south routes.
The warmest conditions are expected through April 18, followed by a transition to a wind-driven and more active weather pattern through April 22. Additional advisories are likely as this system strengthens across the Upper Midwest.
