Southeastern Minnesota sees a severe weather risk Thursday

The rest of the state turns cooler and drier

A cold front making its way across Minnesota is causing big weather contrasts around the state and brings a chance for strong storms to southeastern Minnesota.

Thursday’s forecast

weather graphic
Surface weather analysis 4 a.m. Thursday
National Weather Service

As of 7 a.m., the cold front associated with a storm system impacting Minnesota has made it through all but the southeastern corner of the state.  The cooler, drier air behind the front already brought northern Minnesota seasonable morning temperatures in the 50s and lower dew points. Central Minnesota is starting the day in the 60s, and the area ahead of the front is in the 70s and very muggy.

This temperature contrast will also be noticeable in the highs Thursday, with seasonable 70s and low 80s north, but a few 90s still in southern Minnesota.

weather graphic
Thursday forecast high temperatures
National Weather Service

Afternoon dew points, and thus the humidity, will be lower and in the 50s for most of Minnesota, while still stickier and in the 60s southeast. 

With the front slowly making its way out of southeastern Minnesota Thursday, and becoming almost stationary, it provides the instability for showers and storms to develop, especially in the afternoon and evening. Some storms may become severe, with damaging wind and large hail the primary risk.

weather graphic
Severe weather outlook Thursday
National Weather Service

The hotter weather exits all of Minnesota by Friday, but occasional rain chances continue through the weekend. That extended forecast will be updated around 9 a.m.

Programming note

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

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