Minneapolis

Minneapolis Braces For Tuesday Whiplash As Temps Spike, Winds Howl

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Published on February 23, 2026
Minneapolis Braces For Tuesday Whiplash As Temps Spike, Winds HowlSource: Google Street View

Minneapolis woke up in deep-freeze mode this morning, with clear skies and temperatures hovering around 5°F at Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport. The sun will do a bit of heavy lifting today, nudging readings into the low 20s before a much bigger warm surge rolls in on Tuesday, February 24, 2026. Temperatures are expected to climb to around 37°F on Tuesday, then tumble later in the day as a compact system swings through. A quick flip from light snow to rain is likely across parts of the metro during that change, and gusty winds could make the afternoon feel pretty raw in spots.

This Afternoon And Tuesday

For the rest of today, expect mostly sunny skies with a high near 20°F and a light southeast breeze around 0–5 mph. Clouds build in tonight, with a low near 16°F before temperatures start to rise again early Tuesday.

Tuesday is the main event: there is a chance of light snow before 11:00 a.m., followed by a changeover to rain around midday as temperatures climb into the mid-30s to near 37°F. Southwest winds will pick up to around 15–20 mph, with gusts that could reach about 30 mph. No watches or warnings are posted for the metro at this time, according to the National Weather Service Twin Cities.

Commute And Outdoor Plans

Between the gusty winds and the fast rain/snow transition on Tuesday, roads could see wet pavement and brief slick spots, especially for the afternoon commute. Cyclists and anyone hauling gear should plan for the wind, and it is a good idea to secure loose outdoor items before gusts start kicking around. Drivers should watch for crosswinds on bridges and open stretches of roadway. For real-time road conditions and any travel advisories, check 511 Minnesota and factor in a little extra travel time.

Looking Ahead

By Wednesday, February 25, the warmth retreats and it will feel noticeably colder again, with highs back in the lower 20s and a slight chance of light snow Wednesday night. A broader warm ridge builds in for Thursday and Friday, sending highs into the mid-30s on Thursday and pushing toward the mid-40s by Friday, February 27. The rest of the week keeps a bit of a roller-coaster-like feel for temperatures, so a light extra layer and a quick check of updated forecasts will be your best bet if you have outdoor plans.