Minneapolis weather today is shaping up to be a wild one—expect scattered rain showers early, followed by widespread thunderstorms this afternoon and evening with the potential for severe weather.
Today’s Timeline
Rain showers are likely before 1 PM CT, with the main severe weather window arriving between 1 PM and 2 PM CT as a cold front pushes through the metro. The National Weather Service is highlighting a Slight Risk (Level 2 of 5) for severe thunderstorms across southern Minnesota and far western Wisconsin, primarily for damaging wind gusts and large hail. Temperatures will climb to around 73°F early this afternoon before falling back toward 70°F as the storms roll in. Southerly winds are already gusting 20–35 mph, making conditions particularly blustery.
The National Weather Service Area Forecast Discussion notes that a deepening low-pressure system will drive organized convection with heavy rainfall rates of 1 to 2.5 inches per hour possible in the strongest storms. While most areas should handle this moisture—recent rains have had time to soak in—there is a Marginal Risk of Excessive Rainfall across the Upper Midwest, so keep an eye on poor drainage areas around the Twin Cities and near Target Field and U.S. Bank Stadium.
What to Do Today
If you’re heading to today’s events—the Timberwolves vs. Nuggets Rd 1 Hm Gm 1 at Target Center or the Minnesota Vikings Draft Party at U.S. Bank Stadium—you’ll be safely indoors, which is perfect. However, if you’re planning to attend America: The Happy Trails Tour 2026 at the State Theatre tonight, arrive early and be prepared for wet conditions outside.
Outdoor plans should be postponed. Do not mow the lawn today—the ground will be soaked. If you’re thinking about grilling, skip it; a portable propane grill won’t perform well in these conditions anyway. Outdoor burning is strongly discouraged due to critical fire weather conditions developing across far western Minnesota this afternoon—the dry air ahead of the cold front creates a dangerous combination.
Grab a packable rain jacket and a compact travel umbrella if you need to venture out. An emergency first aid kit is also smart to have on hand during severe weather season.
Tonight and Friday
Showers and thunderstorms will remain likely before 7 PM CT, with scattered activity possible through 1 AM CT. Lows around 45°F. Friday looks beautiful—sunny skies, highs near 62°F, and light northwest winds around 10 mph. Perfect weather for outdoor activities, hiking around the Chain of Lakes, or a walk through Minnehaha Park.
Weekend and Beyond
Friday night into Saturday will be clear and cool (lows 45°F). The weekend stays pleasant with near-normal temperatures in the upper 50s and lower 60s. Keep an eye on early next week, when precipitation chances return.
Dinner Suggestion
With a long evening of storms ahead, this is the perfect day for comfort food. A slow cooker chili or hearty beef stew will be ready when you need it—set it in the morning and forget about it. A programmable slow cooker makes this effortless, or go classic with an enameled cast iron Dutch oven on the stovetop. Need ingredients? You can order groceries on Amazon and have everything for tonight’s dinner delivered to your door.
