Full Breakdown
Heavy Rain Expected Across Minnesota Friday After Mild Thursday
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Forecast Overview
A brief overnight rain will clear early Thursday, leaving mostly dry conditions with lingering fog and clouds that gradually give way to patchy afternoon sunshine. Temperatures are expected to reach the upper 60s to low-70s statewide, with the Twin Cities area topping out near 75 °F. Cloud cover will thicken again Thursday night as a new system approaches.
Rainfall Amounts and Geographic Distribution
Friday’s system is projected to bring soaking rain across central and southern Minnesota and western Wisconsin. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) via Pivotal Weather indicates that most of the region will receive at least 1–2 inches, while a narrower band could produce more than 4 inches, especially in southeastern Minnesota. The Twin Cities metro area could see over 1 inch of rain, and some locations along the Interstate 35 corridor may exceed 3 inches. A few thunderstorms are possible Friday night, bringing locally heavy downpours.
Potential Flood Concerns
NOAA’s Weather Prediction Center notes a slight risk of excessive rainfall that could trigger flood watches, despite ongoing drought conditions. The concentration of heavy rain in a narrow corridor makes precise forecasting difficult until the system is fully underway. Dry air moving in from the east may moderate totals in some areas, but the potential for localized flooding remains.
Official Forecast Sources
The forecast information comes from NOAA’s Weather Prediction Center, the National Weather Service’s Rapid Refresh Forecast System, and regional observations reported by MPR News and FOX 9. These agencies provide the quantitative rainfall estimates, model guidance, and the assessment of flood risk.
Upcoming Conditions
Rain is expected to taper off early Saturday, with only light drizzle possible into the morning. Saturday’s temperatures will be cooler, staying in the 60s, while Sunday should bring a few breaks of sunshine and highs near 70 °F, a pattern that is projected to continue through the following week.