Minnesota Weather: Fire Warnings to Thunderstorms to Snow

Thursday's forecast for Minnesota indicates warm and dry conditions, particularly in the Twin Cities metro area, with highs reaching the upper 70s. However, over a dozen counties in southwest and west central Minnesota are under a red flag warning due to strong winds and low humidity, advising against burning. A significant shift is expected Friday as a potent cold front sweeps through the state. By afternoon, thunderstorms are anticipated, especially east of Interstate 35, with possibilities of becoming severe, posing risks of hail and damaging winds.

Following the Friday storms, a rapid temperature drop will occur Friday night, accompanied by gusty northwest winds. The weekend forecast shows much cooler conditions, with Saturday highs ranging from the upper 30s to lower 40s, and a possibility of mixed precipitation including light snow. Sunday will remain cool but dry, with highs near 50 degrees and lighter winds. A warming trend is predicted to begin early the following week, with temperatures expected to climb back near 70 degrees by Monday.