The National Weather Service has issued a Level 4 out of 5 moderate risk for severe weather across southern Minnesota, including the Twin Cities metro area, northern Iowa, and western Wisconsin.
This includes a significant threat of strong, long-track tornadoes (EF-2 or higher), damaging wind gusts exceeding 70 mph, and large hail.
The most dangerous period is expected between 3 PM and 9 PM CDT.
3-Day Weather Forecast
Weather for Minneapolis, MN, United States
Current Conditions: Cloudy, 63°F (17°C)
Daily Forecast:
- Monday, April 28: Morning thunderstorms in some areas, breezy in the afternoon; a few afternoon storms may be severe with a significant risk for damaging wind gusts, tornadoes, and large hail. High: 75°F (24°C), Low: 43°F (6°C)
- Tuesday, April 29: Cooler with variable cloudiness. High: 60°F (16°C), Low: 44°F (6°C)
- Wednesday, April 30: Plenty of sunshine. High: 66°F (19°C), Low: 49°F (10°C)
Safety Tips During Severe Weather
Before the Storm:
- Stay Informed: Monitor local news, NOAA Weather Radio, or trusted weather apps for weather alerts.
- Prepare Your Shelter: Identify a safe location in your home, such as a basement or an interior room on the lowest floor without windows.
- Emergency Kit: Assemble a kit with essentials like water, non-perishable food, flashlight, batteries, first aid supplies, and necessary medications.
During the Storm:
- Seek Shelter Immediately: If a tornado warning is issued, move to your predetermined safe location without delay.
- Protect Yourself: Use heavy blankets, mattresses, or helmets to shield against flying debris.
- Avoid Windows: Stay away from windows and exterior walls.
If Outdoors or in a Vehicle:
- Do Not Outrun a Tornado: If driving and unable to reach shelter, abandon your vehicle and seek refuge in a low-lying area, covering your head.
- Avoid Overpasses: Do not shelter under bridges or overpasses; they can create dangerous wind tunnel effects.
City and School Closures
In anticipation of the severe weather alert, Minneapolis has closed all non-emergency public facilities as of 2 PM and activated its emergency operations center.
Several school districts, including St. Paul and Bloomington, have canceled evening activities.
Stay Alert
Ensure you have multiple ways to receive weather alerts:
- NOAA Weather Radio: Keep a battery-powered radio tuned to your local NOAA station.
- Mobile Alerts: Enable emergency notifications on your smartphone.
- Weather Apps: Use trusted apps that provide real-time updates and emergency weather alerts.
