Weather chats with Mark Seeley

Humidity conditions and high winds caused series of extreme weather scenarios

A funnel cloud forms beneath a storm system over Rocheste
A funnel cloud forms beneath a storm system over Rochester, Minn., on Friday, April 17, 2026. Severe weather moved through the region, producing conditions that led to tornado activity and widespread damage.
Courtesy of David Brandt

Minnesota brought multiple reports of tornadoes through the week, most rated between 65 mph to 110 mph, or the lower end (between 0 to 1) of the Enhanced Fujita (EF) scale for measuring tornado intensity.

However, two tornadoes reached EF-2 (111-135 mph) causing damage to homes and some farm buildings. Additionally, humidity conditions made much of the state primed for wildfires, triggering Red Flag Warnings.

“Especially the western half of the state, with warm temperatures and afternoon relative humidities consistently between 10 and 19 percent. which is awfully, awfully dry air,” climatologist and meteorologist Mark Seeley said.

Listen to the full conversation by clicking the player above.

Additionally, Mark Seeley will join MPR News host Cathy Wurzer at the Landmark Center in downtown St. Paul on April 29th from 12pm-1pm. They will discuss their experiences working together on Morning Edition for the last 26 years as well as doing the State Fair Weather Quiz.

The program is free and you can find tickets here.