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Consistent temperatures have been a rarity in the forecast over the past two to three weeks. While we’ve seen temperatures consistently above normal, significant fluctuations have been the norm. So far in October, we’ve experienced three temperature swings of more than 10 degrees. 

Thursday into Friday will mirror this pattern, with highs in the 80s on Thursday, followed by a drop of 10, 15 and even 20 degrees in some locations by Friday.

It’s been an active few weeks with a series of solar storms. Another powerful coronal mass ejection (CME) struck Earth Thursday at 10:15 a.m. However, due to the timing of the cold front Thursday night, clouds may obstruct our view of the northern lights.

For those lucky enough to have clear skies, it should be quite the show! 

As we approach mid-October, vibrant hues of yellow, red and orange begin to peak. Central through northern Minnesota is at 75-100 percent peak color, while the Twin Cities is not quite there, only 25-50 percent. 

The weather this weekend is showing a chance for showers north of interstate 94 late Saturday night, with an incoming cold front.

With 20 percent of the state currently experiencing a severe 

, the rain chances will be a welcome relief across the north, northeast.

Temperatures will fall below our average highs as much cooler air moves in and stays through the weekend.

Weather and Climate News

Updraft® - Minnesota Weather News

Mandy Thalhuber

Author

We have one more warm day ahead before several cold fronts bring temperatures back to seasonal and below-seasonal levels. Meanwhile, fall colors in the northland are expected to reach their peak this weekend.

Minnesota Department of Natural Resources

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

Cloud cover through Friday morning 4 a.m. 

NOAA via College of DuPage Weather

NOAA via SWPC

Forecast simulated radar Saturday morning through Sunday morning

Fall colors update; temperatures change dramatically into Friday

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