Minneapolis is waking up to a gorgeous late-June Thursday, with mostly sunny skies and a high near 71°F — enjoy it today, because Juneteenth Friday brings a real storm threat.
Today’s Setup
High pressure has cleared the skies over the Twin Cities, and the National Weather Service expects sunshine to dominate all afternoon. Northwest winds of 0 to 15 mph keep conditions comfortable, though forecasters note some gustiness is possible during peak afternoon heating as the air mixes. Rain chances sit at just 3% — essentially zero. Temperatures are running a few degrees below the mid-June average, but that means a crisp, refreshing feel rather than muggy heat. Take the win.
Best Window To Be Outside
This is a top-tier golf day for the metro. Grab your golf hat visor and head to any course — morning and early afternoon offer the lightest winds. The Chain of Lakes, Lake Minnetonka, and White Bear Lake are equally inviting for kayaking, paddleboarding, or just floating. If you’ve been looking for an excuse to pick up the 2-Person Intex Floating Lounge with Cooler Just $24 deal, today is your day.
Juneteenth Friday: Storm Risk
The National Weather Service is forecasting a 70% chance of showers and thunderstorms for Friday, June 19, with storms developing between 2–5 PM CT and continuing into the evening. The Storm Prediction Center has flagged a Marginal Risk (1 out of 5) for severe weather — mainly elevated hail and damaging wind potential from a passing shortwave system. NWS forecasters note a possible inverted-V sounding that could produce gusty downburst winds. This is not an all-day washout, but plan Juneteenth outdoor gatherings for the morning hours and wrap up by early afternoon.
Weekend Events & What To Expect
Heading to the Echo & the Bunnymen: More Songs To Learn & Sing show at The Fillmore Minneapolis on Friday, June 19? The indoor venue keeps you dry, but time your commute before those afternoon storms develop. Find tickets on StubHub while they’re still available.
Saturday looks much better as models trend drier. The Don Toliver: Octane Tour at Target Center on June 20 should be smooth sailing — Get tickets on SeatGeek if you haven’t locked in seats yet.
Looking ahead to Monday, June 22, the Minnesota Twins host the Los Angeles Dodgers for Native American Heritage Night at Target Field. Grab your Official team gear on Fanatics before the big matchup.
Tonight: Grill It Up
Clear skies, a high of 71°F, and a low dropping to a comfortable 52°F tonight — this is textbook grilling weather. Fire up the propane gas grill for burgers, steaks, or chicken with corn on the cob. A reliable instant-read meat thermometer takes the guesswork out of that perfect internal temp, and a grill brush and scraper set keeps the grates clean between rounds. Need ingredients? You can order groceries on Amazon and have everything for tonight’s dinner delivered to your door.
Next Few Days
- Friday (Juneteenth): Storms likely by 2 PM CT, high near 75°F. Morning outdoor plans are fine; afternoon is risky.
- Friday Night: Storms taper off after 7 PM CT, low around 54°F.
- Weekend: National Weather Service models are trending drier — the weekend looks salvageable, and highs climb back toward normal near 80°F by next week.
For the latest Minneapolis weather forecast, check back throughout the day. And browse our outdoor gear deals to make the most of summer while the weather cooperates.
