Storms to Clear Smoke Across Minnesota, But Bring Risk of Severe Weather and Heavy Rain

Smoke-clearing storms are on the way—but with them come strong winds, heavy rain, and the risk of severe weather. Stay alert and monitor forecasts, especially with outdoor events this week.

The last few days, across most of Minnesota, the skies have consisted of a thick layer of smoke due to wildfires up in Canada, creating hazy conditions. Parts of the state are under an Air Quality alert through Monday at 6:00 pm. Our next storm system this afternoon will help dissolve the smoke. There is a Slight Risk (Level 2 of 5) for severe weather for parts of west central and southwestern Minnesota, with much of the state under a Marginal Risk (Level 1 of 5). This will bring the likelihood of strong storms that could have plenty of rain. In addition to the heavy rain associated with these strong storms, damaging winds and hail are possible. With us being under partly sunny skies for the beginning of the day on Monday, we will see a daytime high of around 91 degrees with winds out of the south southwest at 10 to 20 miles per hour, with gusts as high as 30 miles per hour.

This batch of storms will also bring a cold front that will sweep through the state, bringing some cooler temperatures throughout most of the week and the chance of rain continuing through Tuesday afternoon. Once the rain clears out, we will see temps in the upper 70s and our next chance of storms Thursday through Sunday. For schools across the area that have commencement ceremonies this week, it would not be a bad idea to closely monitor the forecast and consult with your National Weather Service Office.

A good reminder, with any chance for severe weather, make sure to have multiple ways to receive warnings.