Minnesota faces extreme heat warning as temperatures soar

Minnesota is currently experiencing its first heatwave of the summer, driven by high temperatures and significant humidity. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued an extreme heat warning that starts on Saturday at noon and lasts until Sunday at 9 p.m., affecting the Twin Cities and most of southern Minnesota. The warning indicates that feels-like temperatures could reach dangerous levels, with forecasts predicting highs in the mid-90s this weekend. This heatwave aligns with similar severe weather patterns being observed across the Plains and the Midwest, where the region is experiencing some of the highest temperatures of the season. As temperatures rise, many areas in Minnesota will have a category three heat risk, meaning those without adequate cooling or hydration may face health threats. On Saturday, temperatures in the Twin Cities could feel like they are in the low 100s due to humidity, with the forecast for Sunday showing a slight decrease in temperatures but still extremely high heat index values, potentially reaching 110 degrees in the metro area. This lack of relief is compounded by forecasted overnight lows around 79 degrees, which would break a longstanding record from 1923. Meteorologists warn that this exceptional heat is fueled in part by moisture that has been transported from the Gulf of Mexico. In light of the extreme heat conditions, officials advise residents to limit outdoor activities and drink ample water to avoid heat-related illnesses. Energy companies such as Xcel Energy are also suggesting ways to minimize electricity costs while using air conditioning, including cleaning AC filters and scheduling heavy appliance use during cooler nighttime hours. The heatwave will be followed by a cold front expected to sweep through on Sunday night into Monday, which may lead to a round of showers and storms, providing much-needed relief from the heat. However, the cold front's stall over southern Minnesota could also lead to continued inclement weather throughout the coming week, bringing additional rain and storms from Tuesday to Thursday. This pattern reflects a broader trend of extreme weather impacting not only Minnesota but also surrounding areas as they adapt to the changing climate.