Minnesota Weather Alert: Strong Winds And Storms Hit Sunday Before Cold Front Moves In
TWIN CITIES, MN — Residents across Minnesota and western Wisconsin should prepare for strong winds and scattered thunderstorms Sunday, as a cold front pushes through the region and ushers in significantly cooler temperatures to start the week.
45 MPH Wind Gusts Expected
The National Weather Service Twin Cities reports that southerly winds between 35 and 45 mph will persist through Sunday evening, especially in western and central Minnesota, including Alexandria, Redwood Falls, and Willmar.
Winds are expected to shift from the southwest to northwest overnight as the cold front moves in, dropping temperatures and bringing a noticeable fall chill by Monday morning.
Travel could be difficult for high-profile vehicles on east–west routes such as Highway 12 and Interstate 94, and residents are urged to secure outdoor furniture, garbage bins, and decorations.
Fire Danger Elevated In Dry Areas
Officials also warn that dry vegetation and strong gusts could increase the risk of grass or brush fires, particularly in southwestern Minnesota, where rainfall has been below average in recent weeks.
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources advises avoiding outdoor burning and using caution with vehicles, farm equipment, and power tools that could ignite dry grass.
Storms Move Through Sunday Evening
Scattered showers and isolated thunderstorms are expected late Sunday afternoon and into the evening, mainly in eastern Minnesota and western Wisconsin. The storms are not expected to be severe but could bring brief downpours and lightning before skies clear overnight.
Sharp Drop In Temperatures
Behind the front, Monday highs will fall to the lower 60s, a sharp change from Sunday’s near-80-degree warmth. The Twin Cities and much of the region will remain cool through midweek before rebounding to near 70°F by Thursday.
Meteorologists say this pattern signals the first true shift toward autumn temperatures as cold air masses begin pushing farther south across the Upper Midwest.
Forecast Snapshot
- Sunday: Warm, windy, highs near 80°F. Afternoon storms possible.
- Sunday Night: Scattered rain and wind shift northwest. Lows near 50°F.
- Monday: Cooler, highs in the low 60s. Breezy and dry.
- Tuesday: Sunny and mild, highs in the mid-60s.
- Thursday: Warmer, highs returning to 70°F.
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I’ve lived in Naperville long enough to see how quickly our community changes — from new developments downtown to sudden shifts in our Midwest weather. Reporting on Naperville news and daily forecasts gives me the chance to keep neighbors informed about what really matters. My goal is simple: deliver clear, timely updates so you always know what’s happening in our city and what to expect from the skies above.