Minneapolis residents should brace for a potentially stormy day ahead as showers and thunderstorms are likely, mainly after 5:00 P.M., with storms predicted to produce heavy rainfall, according to the National Weather Service. With the thermometer set to climb to a high near 85 degrees and winds gusting as high as 25 mph, the likelihood of precipitation stands at 60%. Moving into the evening, the chance of rain ramps up to 80%, but shower activity is expected to taper off shortly after midnight.
The latest updates suggest that showers and thunderstorms may occur before midnight, then a slight chance of showers between midnight and 1:00 A.M. It is advised to be vigilant as the incoming weather front could generate heavy rainfall, potentially leading to localized flooding. Storms could also come packed with gusty winds and hail through this evening. In a related warning, the Weather Service has issued a Hazardous Weather Outlook spanning several counties in central and southern Minnesota, as well as parts of western Wisconsin.
Looking ahead, the forecast suggests a somewhat calmer outlook for Minneapolis with a 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly between 1:00 P.M. and 4:00 P.M. on Wednesday. The rest of the week promises more favorable conditions as mostly sunny skies are expected, though the winds are set to pick up with gusts that may reach up to 35 mph on Thursday. Temperatures will hover in the comfortable mid-70s range after Thursday's dip to a high near 70.
Residents near waterways should remain observant as the Weather Service warns that flooding along area rivers will increase through the week as heavy rain over the last few days continues to work through streams & tributaries into the main stem rivers. SKYWARN spotters may need to thoroughly prepare themselves for activation this afternoon and evening. With the weather system progressing eastward, those in high-risk flood zones should monitor updates and stay alert to local evacuation orders or advisories.
