Enhanced severe storm risk over Twin Cities Monday
FOX 9 meteorologist Ian Leonard says the Twin Cities metro sits under a Level 3 (Enhanced) risk for severe weather from about 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. Monday, with the greatest threats being very large hail and damaging winds. Tornadoes are possible mainly east of the metro, but the core concern is classic spring severe storms riding in off a day that already hit around 80 degrees with strong winds. Central and western Minnesota and western Wisconsin share the Enhanced risk, while areas north and west of the metro and far southern Minnesota are under a lower, Level 2 (Slight) risk. After the storms move through Monday night, the pattern stays unsettled with additional rain chances Tuesday through Thursday and again Saturday, when highs are expected to drop into the upper 40s before sunnier weather returns Sunday. Residents across the 7‑county metro should be prepared for rapidly changing conditions Monday afternoon and evening, including the possibility of hail damage, downed limbs and power interruptions, and rough travel during the evening commute.
📌 Key Facts
- Twin Cities metro, central and western Minnesota, and western Wisconsin are under a Level 3 (Enhanced) severe weather risk Monday from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m.
- Main threats are very large hail and damaging winds, with tornadoes possible mainly east of the metro.
- Storms usher in an unsettled week with rain chances Tuesday–Thursday and Saturday, with temperatures dropping into the upper 40s before sun returns Sunday.
📊 Relevant Data
Minnesota has experienced an increase in the frequency and intensity of storms, with frequent and intense storms now occurring more than any time on record, and this trend is projected to continue due to climate change.
Climate change impacts — Minnesota Pollution Control Agency
Temperatures in Minnesota are increasing, driving changes in seasonal temperatures and increasing heavy rain events, which contribute to more unsettled weather patterns.
Climate Change in Minnesota — University of Minnesota
From 1991 to 2020, Minnesota averaged 46 tornadoes per year, with tornadoes occurring from April through September, but April typically sees fewer tornadoes compared to peak months like June.
Minnesota Tornado History and Statistics — Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
📰 Source Timeline (1)
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