Minneapolis is under an Excessive Heat Warning today, Sunday, July 12, with sunny skies, a high near 94°F, and a heat index climbing toward 99°F — the National Weather Service says this is the start of a multi-day heatwave, so plan errands, workouts, and Target Field trips for the early morning if you can.
Today’s Setup
The NWS Twin Cities office notes an overnight low of only 73°F at 3 AM, and it won’t fall much further tonight either — a sign of just how much warm, muggy air is locked in place. An anomalous upper-level ridge is building and will peak Monday into Tuesday, with the Excessive Heat Warning and Heat Advisory both in effect through Tuesday evening across the metro.
Best Window To Be Outside
Morning, before 10 AM CT, is your best stretch before the heat index climbs toward triple digits. The Minnesota Twins host the Los Angeles Angels at Target Field today, and with heat index values near 99°F, bring water, sunscreen, and shade gear rather than skipping hydration breaks. If you’re headed there, a Minnesota Twins jersey and Minnesota Twins fitted cap make for good game-day gear, and you can still grab seats — Get tickets on SeatGeek or Find tickets on StubHub. Jack Johnson plays Mystic Lake Amphitheater tonight; it’s an outdoor show with lows only near 74°F, so plan for a warm, sticky evening.
Heat, Rain, Or Wind Risk
There’s essentially no rain in the forecast (0-2% chance) through the next several days, so the heat is the whole story. Check on elderly neighbors and pets, never leave anyone in a parked car, and reschedule strenuous yard work or long mowing sessions for early morning or after sunset.
What To Wear Or Bring
Light, breathable clothing and a wide-brim hat go a long way. Golfers should book the earliest tee time available — a Pinemeadow Golf complete set is a solid budget option if you’re just getting into the game. Headed to a lake to cool off? A beach wagon cart makes hauling gear easier, and outdoor gear deals are worth a look before you go.
Helpful Links
For backyard evenings once the sun dips, outdoor string lights and a patio furniture set make hot nights more comfortable. Looking ahead to next weekend, the Minnesota Yacht Club Festival hits Harriet Island Regional Park on July 18.
Next Few Days
Monday brings another scorcher near 96°F with zero rain chance — heat index still near 99°F — before Tuesday marks the peak of this heat event. Monday also brings Meghan Trainor to Grand Casino Arena (grab a Meghan Trainor t-shirt), Ella Mai at the Armory, and the Minnesota Lynx hosting the Phoenix Mercury at Target Center.
For dinner, this is prime grilling weather — burgers, steaks, or grilled chicken with corn on the cob all cook up nicely once the sun starts dropping. An instant-read meat thermometer and grill brush and scraper set make cookout night easier. Need ingredients? You can order groceries on Amazon and have everything for tonight’s dinner delivered to your door.

