Minneapolis residents can expect a rollercoaster of weather conditions for the week ahead with sunny skies giving way to possible thunderstorms, according to predictions from the National Weather Service. Today's outlook shows a mostly sunny day with highs reaching near 75 degrees, accompanied by an eastward wind shifting from a calm breeze to a more noticeable 5 to 10 mph gust in the morning.
The evening could bring a slight chance of showers and thunderstorms before midnight, then another slight chance of showers after 3 a.m. Residents should prepare for mostly cloudy conditions with a low of around 48 degrees. The north-northeast wind may pick up, ranging from 10 to 15 mph. The chance of precipitation tonight stands at a modest 20%, but things are looking clearer for Thursday.
Thursday's forecast remains largely dry with a 20 percent chance of showers before the afternoon. The day promises to grow increasingly sunny after a predominantly cloudy morning and highs are expected to hover around 64 degrees with the north-northeast wind continuing at a steady 10 mph, the National Weather Service reports.
In a contrasting turn, Friday might reintroduce precipitation between the hours of 1 and 4 p.m. with further possibilities of showers and thunderstorms afterward. This potentially unsettled weather won't dampen the temperatures as they are forecasted to rise to highs near 72, despite brisk winds. Gusts could reach as much as 30 mph, with the shift in wind direction moving from south-southwest to northwest throughout the day. A modest 30 percent chance of showers is anticipated.
The weekend promises a reprieve with sunny skies slated for Saturday and a high around 70, followed by partly cloudy conditions Saturday night. The tranquility may be short-lived, however, as Sunday brings back a 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms post-1 p.m. Despite potential downpours, sun-seekers will delight in the predicted high of 76 degrees.
Yet, the week is not out of the volatile weather woods. The Hazardous Weather Outlook cautions that patchy fog may linger through sunrise across east-central Minnesota and western Wisconsin today. The Hazardous Weather Outlook also mentions a potential for scattered thunderstorms this evening and tonight across southern Minnesota, "A few strong storms are possible across
southwest Minnesota along with locally heavy rainfall." As the week progresses, the hazardous weather seems to abate, with no significant concerns forecasted from Thursday through Tuesday.
With an ever-changing weather pattern, Minneapolis residents should stay alert and check daily updates. Skywarn spotters are advised that activation may be required this evening, especially across southwest Minnesota, to keep close tabs on the storm's development and provide needed insights into the unpredictable Minnesota spring.
