Minneapolis woke up clear and brisk on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, with the official observation at KMSP around 39°F and much drier air in place. Highs will climb into the mid-50s this afternoon, although a persistent northwest breeze will keep it feeling cooler. Low-lying neighborhoods and some suburbs could see frost overnight, while downtown's heat island should limit any hard freeze within the city core.
Afternoon Winds Get Feisty
Northwest winds are expected to strengthen through the afternoon, generally 5–15 mph with gusts that could reach 20–25 mph, enough to make the air feel several degrees colder and rattle unsecured outdoor items. According to the National Weather Service Twin Cities, mixing in the boundary layer should support gusts into the 20s through the afternoon.
Frost Risk Tuesday Night
Skies clear tonight and temperatures will fall, with forecast lows for the Minneapolis area expected near the mid-30s Wednesday morning, May 6, 2026. Most of the city should avoid a hard freeze, but colder pockets outside the core could dip below freezing. The forecast discussion notes that west-central Minnesota has the highest chance of an actual freeze and may see advisory upgrades in the next cycle.
Protect Plants And Plans
Gardeners should move potted plants indoors or cover beds before sunset on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, and secure lightweight outdoor furniture against gusts. For practical, local tips on simple covers and cloches, see guidance from the University of Minnesota Extension.
What Comes Next
Temperatures trend upward later this week, with highs returning to the low to mid-60s by Thursday and into the lower 70s by Saturday, May 9, 2026, with only a slight chance of showers over the weekend. Forecasters also flag a brief area of elevated fire-weather concern Thursday for parts of southern and western Minnesota due to low humidity, although greener vegetation and lighter winds should limit significant fire risk around the Twin Cities.
