Minneapolis started Tuesday under partly cloudy skies and a comfortable 70°F, but the calm will not last long. Northwest winds are already on the move, and by later in the day gusts could push up to 30 mph, which means banners, umbrellas and any unsecured patio gear may get a workout.
Afternoon Winds Pick Up
Those northwest breezes are expected to ramp up to a steady 10–15 mph by the afternoon, with gusts reaching near 30 mph. Rooftop patios, sidewalk seating and outdoor markets will feel noticeably blustery, and lake or river plans could come with some choppier water than usual. The latest outlook from the National Weather Service Twin Cities highlights the gusty setup.
What To Expect This Week
Skies stay mostly sunny through midweek, with highs hovering near 81°F on Tuesday and around 79°F on Wednesday. Overnight lows dip into the upper 50s to about 60°F, offering a cooler, more comfortable stretch. Winds ease back Wednesday into Thursday, and that milder pattern holds briefly before a more intense warm-up settles in later in the week.
Weekend Heat Returns
A ridge is expected to build over the region this weekend, sending afternoon highs into the low 90s, near 92°F on Saturday and about 94°F on Sunday. The hotter pattern will mean toasty afternoons and not much relief overnight. If you need a spot to cool down, Minneapolis Park & Recreation has wading pools, splash pads and other chill-out options listed on the Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board website.
Tips For The Day
Secure or bring in lightweight outdoor items before the wind really kicks up, and keep pets and plants watered as gusty conditions dry things out. If you are out running errands or commuting during the afternoon, be ready for those blustery bursts. Looking ahead to the weekend, plan for shade breaks and pack extra water if you expect to be outside during the hottest parts of the day.
