Parts of Minnesota get storms Tuesday, then the whole state turns drier

A cold front moving across Minnesota will bring a few showers and storms Tuesday. Behind it, a much quieter weather pattern returns.

Tuesday’s weather

The storm system that started moving into northwestern Minnesota late Monday is now in eastern Minnesota as of 9 a.m. and will be through most of the state by early afternoon.

As it moved into the state, the cold front with the storm brought thunderstorms with a couple areas of heavier rain into the northwestern corner of Minnesota, but those diminished quickly. As of Tuesday morning, there are just a couple spotty showers and storms, especially in northern and southern Minnesota. 

The front will still be in the southeastern edge of Minnesota during part of the afternoon, and more showers and storms are likely to develop during the heat of the day, with a scattered risk for strong storms. 

In Minnesota the primary risk is damaging winds, although the risk gets higher into Wisconsin and could include isolated tornadoes there.

Behind the front, much drier air moves in and the state drops from dew points in the 60s and 70s Tuesday morning to most of the state in the 50s by the evening.

Lower humidity levels are then forecast to last through the end of the week. 

Temperatures started very warm Tuesday, with 60s and 70s. Highs will range from the upper 70s north to upper 80s south. 

Turning drier

Behind Tuesday’s storm, not only does the humidity drop, but the overall pattern turns much drier, with no significant rain chances through the middle of next week. 

Here is the rainfall forecast through the end of this week, showing dry weather for most of the state. 

The spotty totals south and north mostly come from the rain expected with Tuesday’s cold front.

The second half of next week currently looks more active, and the wet weather is needed due to the drought conditions across Minnesota.

Highs Wednesday will be in the 70s north and 80s south. Slightly cooler air Thursday and Friday keep the northern half of Minnesota in the 70s, with lower 80s south, but most of the state is back in the 80s by Saturday. 

Here is that forecast for the Twin Cities:

The northerly flow that brings in the 70s north may also return more smoke into Minnesota from the fires in Canada. We will keep you updated if any air quality issues arise late week.

Programming note

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