A big warmup Thursday afternoon; 30s this weekend

Sunny skies with increasing daylight

Temperatures are finally on the rise after another brutally cold morning, setting us up for a mild and sunny weekend.

Thursday’s forecast

After another very cold start for Minnesota, with the entire state starting below zero and some wind chills 20 to 30 below, temperatures are finally on the rise. Temperatures will climb into the teens by Thursday afternoon.

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Thursday high temperatures
National Weather Service

While that is still below average for highs this time of year, it is a warmup of 20 to 30 degrees-plus from Thursday morning.

The warmup comes thanks to sunny skies and winds that will pick up from the southwest by afternoon, drawing in milder air.

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weather graphic
Thursday afternoon winds
National Weather Service

A mild weekend

The warmer wind flow will cause temperatures across much of Minnesota will remain steady or even rise slightly overnight into Friday morning, and combined with more sunshine, it will bring the entire state into the 30s by Friday afternoon.

weather graphic
Friday high temperatures
National Weather Service

All of the state, even northern Minnesota, is likely to see 30s from Friday through Monday.

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Temperature trend for Duluth and International Falls
National Weather Service

A few spots, including the Twin Cities may even hit 40 over the weekend. It will also stay sunny through the weekend, under increasing daylight.

This should make it a comfortable weekend for outdoor activities.

Snow chances

By Monday, a few more clouds move in and a slight chance for rain or snow returns, with higher chances into Tuesday. There could be some light accumulation into Tuesday, but currently it does not look like it will be a major storm. We will keep you updated as that system approaches!

Programming note

You can hear my live weather updates on Minnesota Public Radio at 7:48 a.m. Monday through Friday morning.