Thunderstorms move into the metro, more damaging storms track into Iowa
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Strong thunderstorm warnings continue in across the state into the west metro. They bring the risk of significant wind damage, large hail and isolated tornadoes through the evening.
A derecho was thought to be possible possible across central and southern Minnesota as part of the storms. Wind gusts over 75 mph are possible, along with heavy rain and embedded tornadoes within the line.
The action comes as parts of the state are still recovering from powerful storms Sunday night into early Monday morning that knocked out power to tens of thousands of people and caused flooding, downed trees and more.
This is a developing story.
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9:48p.m.: Severe thunderstorm warning, more damaging line of storms spares Minnesota
A line of severe thunderstorms is moving into the west metro, bringing with it wind gusts of up to 60 mph and potential for small hail.
McLeod County and counties east to Washington are under a severe thunderstorm warning until 10:30 p.m. The National Weather Service warns there could be damage to roofs, siding and trees.
A more damaging line of storms that had the potential to produce tornadoes only clipped the state, tracking instead from South Dakota into Iowa.
8:38p.m.: Flash flood warnings, wind gusts
The National Weather Service has issued flash flood warnings for west central Minnesota including Morris, Hancock and Chokio until 9:15. As of 7:30 p.m. the Ortonville Airport had measured a 60 mph wind gust.
Several special weather statements have been issued that expire at 8:45 p.m. or later for St. Cloud, Sartell and Sauk Rapids. Wind of 50 mph is expected and hail of half inch size is possible.
Much of central Minnesota and the metro are under a severe thunderstorm watch until 1 a.m. Tuesday.
6:30PM Update: While the damage may not be widespread, we expect a few storms to produce severe winds up to 65mph within this particular watch.
— NWS Twin Cities (@NWSTwinCities) July 28, 2025
An additional watch may be needed to the south where there is a better environment for higher-end severe storms. #mnwx #wiwx https://t.co/qyC5OH9XJ4
Risk level expanded in Minnesota
The National Weather Service reports there is a moderate risk (level 4 of 5) for severe weather in southwestern and west-central Minnesota including Mankato as of about noon.
An enhanced risk (level 3 of 5) includes Minneapolis and Rochester, and a slight risk (level 2 of 5) is highlighted for the area north of St. Cloud.
What is a derecho?
According to the National Weather Service, a derecho is a widespread, long-lived windstorm associated with a fast-moving group of severe thunderstorms, typically forming in a line known as a squall line. These storms can produce straight-line winds that are as damaging as tornadoes and Category 1 hurricanes, but without the rotating structure.
Derechos can last for hours and span hundreds of miles. For example, one derecho event stretched over 600 miles and lasted about 10 hours.
The sheer size and duration of these events pose a significant risk to people and property. Unlike tornadoes, which are more localized, derechos can impact entire regions and span multiple states.
These storms can also move very quickly — at speeds of 50 to 75 mph — and produce straight-line wind gusts exceeding 75 mph. In some cases, wind gusts have been recorded at up to 100 mph. Heavy rains and embedded tornadoes within the storm line are also possible.
Have photos of storm damage? Email tell@mpr.org
