Severe storms are a concern both Wednesday and Thursday

Heat returns to Minnesota, but only briefly

The heat and humidity Minnesota has seen during much of June returns ahead of a storm system that brings much of Minnesota a risk for strong storms.

Wednesday and Thursday

Winds out of the south became more prevalent across Minnesota overnight Tuesday, and because of the warmer flow, temperatures were noticeably warmer Wednesday versus the past two mornings.

Most of the state started Wednesday in the 50s, with even a few 60s, and now temperatures will heat up fast. Highs will be in at least the 80s for most of the state with 90s south and west.

weather graphic
Wednesday high temperatures
National Weather Service

The southerly winds increase and turn gustier Wednesday, with wind gusts over 20 mph for much of the state by the afternoon. This pulls in not only the heat, but also more humidity.

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weather graphic
Forecast storm position late Wednesday
National Weather Service

This pattern change is ahead of a storm system that pushes isolated showers and storms into northern Minnesota by the evening, and south through the state overnight.

Even ahead of that more organized area of showers and storms, there will be a few light showers in northern Minnesota during the day Wednesday.

Those storms also bring an isolated (“marginal,” shown in dark green) severe weather risk to northern and central Minnesota Wednesday evening and overnight, and a more scattered (“slight,” shown in yellow) risk for much of northeastern Minnesota. Severe storms could bring damaging winds and large hail.

weather graphic
Severe weather outlook Wednesday and Thursday
Storm Prediction Center

The weather system slows and lingers in southeastern Minnesota Thursday, shifting the severe risk to that area. The storms Thursday also include a risk for isolated tornadoes. 

We will keep you updated on MPR as any severe weather develops.

Extended forecast

The cold front associated with that storm system finally clears far enough south by Friday to break the heat again, bringing highs in the 70s north and 80s south. 

Highs over the weekend are expected to be in the low to mid 80s for most of Minnesota, which is a little above average, but still seasonable for late June. 

Here is that temperature forecast for the Twin Cities:

weather graphic
Twin Cities forecast highs through Sunday
National Weather Service

Even though slightly cooler air returns, much of the instability stays. Southern Minnesota in particular could still see a few showers or isolated storms into Friday.

The weekend is also looking unsettled enough for occasional showers and storms around the state, but with plenty of dry breaks for outdoor activities too.

Programming note

You can hear my live weather updates on Minnesota Public Radio at 7:49 a.m. Monday through Friday morning.