Minneapolis weather today brings sunny skies and an unseasonably warm high near 84°F, but with some serious strings attached—critical fire weather conditions are developing across the region, and severe thunderstorms will arrive Thursday afternoon.
Today: Windy and Warm
This Wednesday is shaping up to be one of those perfect spring days that makes you want to be outside, but you’ll need to be smart about it. The National Weather Service is forecasting southeast winds at 5 to 15 mph with gusts as high as 30 mph, driven by strong southwesterly flow aloft. That warm air mass will mix efficiently, pushing temperatures into the low-to-mid 80s across the Twin Cities, with even hotter readings (near 90°F) possible in western Minnesota.
Here’s the catch: fire danger is critical today, especially west of the metro. If you’re planning to grill in neighborhoods like Edina, Wayzata, or around the Chain of Lakes, keep your grill attended and have water nearby. Absolutely no burning of yard waste or debris—conditions are too dry and the wind too strong. If you’re thinking about mowing your lawn, get it done early; the low humidity and gusty winds create ideal fire-spread conditions by mid-afternoon.
For allergy sufferers, today’s warm winds will kick up pollen counts significantly. Consider wearing a pollen count face mask if you’re spending extended time outdoors, and keep allergy relief nasal spray handy. Running a HEPA air purifier indoors will help manage indoor air quality as pollen counts spike.
Thursday: Severe Weather Arrives
The party ends Thursday. A shortwave trough moving northeast from the Rockies will trigger widespread thunderstorms across the region starting around midday and intensifying through the afternoon and evening. The Storm Prediction Center is tracking the potential for strong to severe storms, with damaging wind gusts and large hail as primary threats. An isolated tornado is also possible.
Thursday’s high will only reach 74°F, but we’re looking at an 80% chance of precipitation with rainfall amounts between a quarter and half an inch. This is not a day to plan outdoor activities—but it is a perfect day for indoor entertainment. Speaking of which, the Minnesota Vikings Draft Party is happening Thursday at U.S. Bank Stadium, and the Minnesota Timberwolves face the Nuggets in Round 1 Home Game 1 at Target Center that same evening. Both venues are perfect shelter from the storms. If you’re heading to either event, plan for wet conditions and allow extra travel time.
Weekend & Beyond
After Thursday’s storms clear out Thursday night, we’ll settle into a cooler, quieter pattern with highs in the upper 50s to lower 60s—much more typical for late April. Tracking additional precipitation chances early next week, so keep an eye on the forecast.
Dinner Idea
With potentially severe weather Thursday, tonight’s the night for a hearty pasta or stir-fry that doesn’t require much outdoor grilling. Get everything prepped and ready to go indoors. Did you know you can order groceries on Amazon? Get everything you need for tonight’s dinner delivered straight to your door.
Stay weather-aware, and check back for Thursday’s storm updates!
