Minneapolis woke up cool and calm on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, with clear skies and about 61°F reported at Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport. A slight chance of rain before dawn has already slipped away, and sunshine is expected to take over, pushing the afternoon high to around 74°F. It will not be perfectly tranquil, though, as breezy conditions are expected along the riverfront and in open neighborhoods through the afternoon.
Afternoon Gusts And Red Flag Warning
By this afternoon, winds will swing around to the west and crank up to 10 to 20 mph, with gusts that could hit 40 mph across the metro and on exposed bridges. A Red Flag Warning is in effect for parts of western and southern Minnesota from 11 AM to 9 PM CDT on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, and outdoor burning is strongly discouraged in those warned counties. Secure loose patio furniture and hold off on yard debris burns until humidity climbs and winds back off, since any fire that starts could spread quickly in the dry, gusty air, according to the National Weather Service.
Rest Of The Week
High pressure steps in on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, bringing calmer, sunny weather with highs near 73°F. Things turn more unsettled by Thursday as a frontal system moves in, bringing a chance of afternoon showers and a better shot at showers and thunderstorms Thursday night into Friday. Daytime highs will climb into the low to mid 80s by Friday. Anyone eyeing outdoor plans this weekend should keep an eye on updated forecasts, since the increasing moisture and warmth late in the week could fuel more widespread showers and isolated storms.
Plan And Safety Tips
Tie down or bring inside lightweight outdoor items and avoid open burning in warned counties, and save fireplaces and recreational fires for when conditions calm down. If you are running outdoor events or supervising work crews, factor in the gusty winds for tents and staging and consider shifting activities indoors this afternoon and evening. For the latest watches and warnings, check the National Weather Service through the day.
