Smoke Clears, But Storms Could Disrupt Weekend Plans: MN Weather

MINNESOTA — A Hazardous Weather Outlook is in effect for the Twin Cities and much of Minnesota, as forecasters warn of an active weather pattern developing this weekend. Rain and thunderstorms are likely Friday through Sunday, and the return of wildfire smoke could once again impact air quality.

An Air Quality Alert ended at 9 a.m. Wednesday, after areas of smoke from Canadian wildfires finally lifted.

Conditions will stay dry and warm through Thursday, but showers and storms begin to move in late Thursday night and could linger through early next week.

Weekend Forecast Highlights:

• Thursday Night: 30% chance of showers and storms after 1 a.m. Low near 59.
• Friday: Showers likely, with possible thunderstorms in the afternoon. High near 71. Chance of precipitation is 60%.
• Friday Night: Showers tapering off. Mostly cloudy, low around 55.
• Saturday: Slight chance of showers in the afternoon. High near 76.
• Saturday Night: Showers and thunderstorms likely after 1 a.m. Low around 59. Chance of precipitation is 60%.
• Sunday: Partly sunny with a 30% chance of afternoon storms. Breezy, with a high near 74 and gusts up to 25 mph.

While no severe weather is expected at this time, the National Weather Service notes that the developing system marks the start of an active weather pattern beginning this weekend.