Updraft® - Minnesota Weather News

Scattered thunderstorms north; drought persists in parts of MN

There is a marginal risk for a severe thunderstorm up north

Severe weather risk areas
Severe weather risk areas
Duluth National Weather Service

Minnesota is one state. But we often have a variety of weather conditions.

This spring is a classic example. Parts of southern Minnesota are soggy from several inches of rainfall. Parts of northern and western Minnesota are in moderate drought. All weather is local.

Scattered thunderstorms north

Our blustery mid-June atmosphere is unstable enough to trigger a few scattered showers and thunderstorms up north. NOAA’s HRRR model paints the zone of spotty showers moving quickly southeast this afternoon and evening.

NOAA HRRR model through 10 pm tonight
NOAA HRRR model through 10 pm Thursday
NOAA via tropical tidbits

A few storms could approach severe limits. These quick-hitting storms could pack downpours, gusty winds, and hail today as they move in quickly from the northwest.

Remember, severe thunderstorm criteria are wind gusts of at least 58 mph, and hail 1-inch diameter or larger.

Classic June

Our forecast looks spectacular as we move toward the weekend. Bright sin, blue skies, mild temperatures, and low humidity? Most Minnesotans will take it.

Twin Cities area outlook
Twin Cities area outlook
Twin Cities National Weather Service

Drought persists

Areas of moderate drought continue to show up across western and northern Minnesota in Thursday’s updated U.S. Drought Monitor.

U.S. Drought Monitor for Minnesota
U.S. Drought Monitor for Minnesota
USDA/UNL

The forecast for the next week looks mostly dry up north in the drought zone.

European model (ECMWF) precipitation output
European model (ECMWF) precipitation output through Friday, June 12
ECMWF via pivotal weather

I’m getting a little concerned about increased fire danger up north if the trend continues.

Fire danger in Minnesota
Fire danger in Minnesota
Minnesota DNR

Stay tuned.