Minneapolis wakes up to sunshine and a high near 81°F today, with 0% chance of rain and light south-southwest winds around 0 to 10 mph — a genuinely comfortable day to get outside before things heat up. The National Weather Service Twin Cities office says high pressure is shifting the flow south, kicking off a warming trend after yesterday’s cooler lower-to-mid 70s.
Today’s Setup
Skies were clear overnight with a low around 55°F, and Thursday holds sunny with light winds. Friday climbs a little more to a high near 83°F under mostly sunny skies with just a 1% chance of rain — the NWS notes any Friday storm activity should stay focused over central Minnesota and points north, so the metro stays dry.
Best Window To Be Outside
With near-calm wind and full sun, midday through early evening today is ideal for the Chain of Lakes trails around Lake Harriet and Bde Maka Ska. Heading to CHS Field in St. Paul for the St. Paul Saints vs. Columbus Clippers on Friday? Expect comfortable conditions with only a low, 7% chance of a stray shower after dark.
Heat Risk Building This Weekend
Enjoy today and Friday while you can. The NWS says Saturday marks the start of a building ridge that brings “much above normal” heat into next week, with over 90% of forecast models pointing above-normal highs and some scenarios reaching the upper 90s. That matters if you’re catching the Minnesota Twins vs. Athletics games at Target Field on Saturday, July 25, and Sunday, July 26 — plan tailgating around shade and hydration, and grab a Minnesota Twins jersey or Minnesota Twins fitted cap for the outdoor stands. Minnesota United FC also hosts Vancouver Whitecaps at Allianz Field on July 26.
What To Wear Or Bring
Light layers work fine today, but start prepping for the heat — moisture wicking undershirts men styles help a lot once the ridge builds in this weekend. Evenings by the lake mean bugs are out, so pack mosquito repellent spray. Thinking about floating this weekend before the real heat lands? The 2-Person Intex Floating Lounge with Cooler is worth grabbing now — browse more outdoor gear deals too.
Helpful Links
Tonight, Forrest Frank plays Target Center — check out our Forrest Frank tour coverage and grab tickets on SeatGeek. Friday brings the Wizkid-headlined Tribeville Festival Deluxe at the Armory — find tickets on StubHub if you’re heading down.
Dinner Tonight
With clear skies, light wind, and a comfortable 81°F high, it’s a great night to grill on the patio — a simple pasta or stir-fry works fine too if you’d rather stay in out of the sun. Need ingredients? You can order groceries on Amazon and have everything for tonight’s dinner delivered to your door.
Next Few Days
Friday stays warm and mostly dry near 83°F, then real heat arrives Saturday as high pressure builds in and holds through early next week. Get any mowing, yardwork, or long lake days done today or Friday morning — once the ridge takes over, it’s staying hot.

