Twin Cities Turns Cold and Quiet, Weekend Warmup Raises Fire Danger

Twin Cities Gets a Cold, Quiet End to the Workweek as Weekend Fire Risk Rises

The Twin Cities will end the workweek with the coldest weather of the week, as high pressure builds into Minnesota Friday afternoon and helps clear the skies. Highs are expected to stay in the upper 30s, which is nearly 20 degrees below average for this time of year.

Winds will still be noticeable for much of Friday, with gusts near 30 mph across the metro, but conditions should ease by evening as the air turns calmer. The quieter weather will not last long, because the pattern shifts again over the weekend and brings a warmer but riskier setup.

Friday Brings Chilly Air and Fading Winds

Friday stands out as the coldest day in the region, with temperatures holding well below seasonal norms. As skies continue to clear late in the day, the combination of dry air and diminishing wind should make the evening feel calmer than the afternoon.

Weather officials say the improving conditions are tied to high pressure moving in from the west. That system usually brings sinking air, fewer clouds, and more stable weather, which is exactly what is expected heading into Friday night.

Weekend Warmup Arrives With South Winds

The overnight setup changes fast as the high shifts east on Saturday. That movement will turn winds out of the south and allow warmer air to spread back into the Twin Cities and surrounding areas.

Saturday temperatures are forecast to climb into the 50s, but gusts near 30 mph are also expected to return. The warmer air will make the day feel more springlike, yet the stronger wind and dry ground will also raise concern for outdoor burning and other fire-starting activities.

Elevated Fire Threat Forecast for the Metro

The fire danger is expected to be elevated for the metro and areas farther south and west. Dry conditions, warming temperatures, and persistent gusts can help fires spread faster, especially in open grasslands and places where vegetation has not fully greened up yet.

Residents should pay close attention to local burn restrictions and avoid any activity that could spark flames during the windy period. Even small embers from grills, fire pits, or outdoor work can quickly become a problem when humidity is low and wind speeds increase.

1. Check for local burn bans before lighting anything outdoors.
2. Secure trailer chains, tow straps, and loose items that can drag or spark.
3. Avoid tossing cigarettes or burning debris into dry grass.
4. Keep grills and fire pits away from brush, fences, and other flammable material.
5. Report any fast-moving grass fire to emergency crews immediately.

Best Weather of the Weekend on Sunday

Sunday is expected to be the most comfortable day of the weekend, with highs reaching the 60s and winds becoming calmer. That should give the region a better chance for outdoor plans, especially after the colder and breezier conditions earlier in the period.

The warmer trend is also a sign that the atmosphere is becoming more active as April approaches. Forecasters say next week will start mild, with a more unsettled pattern developing as the new month begins.