Hold on tight, Minnesota—you’re in for a wild ride with the weather! Starting Thursday night, temperatures are going to drop into the 40s, and by Friday afternoon, you’ll feel like summer has arrived with highs hitting the 80s. And just to add a bit more drama, we’ve got storms rolling in, too. You’ll want to be ready for a day of temperature whiplash and possible thunderstorms that could make for some unpredictable weather.
What’s Coming: A Huge 40°–80°F Temperature Shift
It all starts on Thursday night when temperatures dip into the 40s—definitely on the chillier side. You’ll probably be bundling up, and a jacket or sweater will feel just right if you’re stepping out. But, here’s where it gets crazy: By Friday afternoon, the temperature will shoot up into the 80s! That’s a massive change in a short time, and it’s going to feel like we’re jumping from winter straight into summer.
How the Temperature Change Will Play Out:
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Thursday Night: The temperature drops into the 40s, and it’s going to feel pretty chilly. So if you’re out in the evening, you’ll want to bring that extra layer to stay comfortable.
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Friday Morning: Things will start to warm up by mid-morning, and by the time lunchtime rolls around, you’ll see temperatures creeping into the 60s. A nice preview of the heat to come.
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Friday Afternoon: The temperature will hit the 80s, and just like that, you’ll feel like you’re in the middle of a hot summer day. It’s going to be a big switch, so be prepared for the rapid change.
With this kind of dramatic temperature swing, layering will be your best friend. Start with something light but pack that jacket or sweater for the morning chill. When the afternoon heat kicks in, you’ll be thankful you didn’t wear a winter coat!
And Now, the Storms: What to Expect
Along with the wild temperature swing, we’ve got thunderstorms on the horizon by Friday afternoon. These storms are expected to develop as the temperature climbs, and they could bring heavy rain, strong winds, and even hail. It’s going to be a typical Minnesota spring—weather that changes quickly and can surprise you when you least expect it.
What You Need to Know About the Storms:
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Heavy Rain: The storms could dump a lot of rain in a short amount of time. This could lead to localized flooding, especially in places with poor drainage. If you’re near a creek, low-lying area, or flood-prone spot, stay alert.
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Hail: It’s possible that some of the storms could bring hail. Hail can be rough on cars, roofs, and even your garden, so if you can, park your vehicle under shelter or in a garage. If you’ve got a garden, keep an eye on those delicate plants—they might not survive a hailstorm.
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Strong Winds: Along with the rain, we’ll likely see strong wind gusts. These winds could bring down tree branches or blow debris around. If you’re driving, make sure to stay cautious, especially if visibility drops or wind gusts get strong.
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Severe Storms Possible: There’s a chance that the storms could be severe, which means strong winds, hail, and the potential for flash flooding. So, keep an ear to the ground for any severe weather alerts throughout the day.
How to Stay Safe and Prepared
With all this unpredictable weather heading your way, it’s best to be prepared. Here’s what you can do to stay safe, stay comfortable, and keep your home and vehicle protected:
1. Dress in Layers
The temperature is going to flip-flop throughout the day, so layers are key. Start with something light, but have a jacket or sweater ready for the morning chill. When the heat kicks in later, you’ll be able to shed those layers without feeling too uncomfortable.
2. Stay Weather-Aware
The storms could pop up quickly, so stay tuned to the forecast. Make sure to check your phone or local news for any severe weather alerts throughout the day. Keeping an eye on the weather will help you stay ahead of any sudden changes.
3. Be Prepared for the Storms
If you’re planning to be outside on Friday afternoon, have a backup plan. It’s possible that those storms will hit earlier than expected, so keep an eye on the sky and be ready to head inside if needed. If you’re driving, be extra cautious—heavy rain, wind, and hail can make for dangerous road conditions.
4. Protect Your Car and Yard
If storms bring hail, make sure your car is safe. If you can, park it under shelter or in the garage. If you don’t have access to a garage, you can try covering your car with a tarp or blanket to protect it. Also, keep outdoor furniture and other items secured so they don’t get blown away by the winds.
5. Emergency Kit
If you lose power or have to stay inside for a while, make sure you have an emergency kit with essentials. Stock up on flashlights, batteries, water, and snacks. If you’ve got pets, don’t forget to have extra food and water on hand for them, too.
Get Ready for a Crazy Day
Minnesota’s weather is about to put on a show, with a 40° to 80°F temperature swing and the potential for some serious thunderstorms. From a chilly start to a hot afternoon, we’re getting the full spectrum of spring weather in one day. Make sure to layer up, stay weather-aware, and be ready for whatever the weather throws your way.
