Rain and high winds Wednesday

A strong storm moves across Minnesota Wednesday bringing high winds, rain and even an isolated risk for severe weather.

Wednesday’s forecast

As of 7 a.m. Wednesday, a strong storm is already impacting Minnesota with rain, with the center of the storm (the low pressure area) just west of the state.

As the low slides across central Minnesota during the day, it brings a mix of conditions across the state. 

First, there will be a noticeable contrast in high temperatures, with southern Minnesota still on the warmer side of the storm, making it into the 60s, while the northern edge of the state sees temperatures barely warm, staying in the 40s.

The more persistent rain, and the higher rain totals also stay on the north side of the storm, where many places could see over a half an inch.  Although rain chances get much spottier the farther south you get, it is central Minnesota, just south of where the storm center is likely to track, that has an isolated risk for severe weather.  

Large hail and high winds would be the concern with any severe storms.

While the southern half of Minnesota escapes most of the accumulating rain, it will see the highest winds, with gusts exceeding 30 and 40 mph. 

This puts a broad area from around Interstate 94 and south and west of Interstate 35 under a wind advisory from 1 p.m. to 10 p.m. Wednesday.  Additionally, the combination of recent dry weather, low humidity, and the high winds have the southeastern corner of the state under a red flag warning Wednesday afternoon. 

The storm finally starts to move out late Wednesday, reducing the winds and taking the rain along with it.

Behind the storm, much colder air settles in for a prolonged stay. That extended forecast will be updated around 9:30 a.m.

Programming note

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