Minneapolis is facing a significant severe weather threat on Monday, April 28, with the National Weather Service issuing a Level 4 out of 5 “Moderate Risk” for the region. Forecasters warn that conditions are ideal for the development of strong tornadoes, destructive hail, and damaging wind gusts as two rounds of storms sweep across southern Minnesota.
The first wave of storms moved through the area during the morning hours, delivering small hail, frequent lightning, and isolated strong wind gusts. While the initial activity was mostly below severe levels, meteorologists say it has set the stage for a much more dangerous round later today.
Severe weather threat intensifies across Minneapolis
According to the National Weather Service, the second wave of storms is expected to develop between 2 p.m. and 8 p.m., with peak intensity during the late afternoon and early evening. Supercell thunderstorms—capable of producing EF2 or stronger tornadoes—are a primary concern, alongside hailstones larger than golf balls and wind gusts exceeding 70 mph.
“The environment is extremely volatile this afternoon,” said Jennifer Thomas, a meteorologist with the Twin Cities office of the National Weather Service. “All residents need to be ready to take immediate shelter if a warning is issued.”
The areas under the greatest threat include the entire Twin Cities metro, Rochester, Mankato, and extending into parts of northern Iowa and western Wisconsin. A Tornado Watch is likely to be issued later today for the region.
City officials are encouraging residents to monitor local news, weather apps, and NOAA weather radios for updates. They are also reminding people to secure loose outdoor objects, prepare for possible power outages, and finalize shelter plans now rather than waiting until warnings are issued.
“If you don’t have a safe place identified already, take a few minutes this morning to figure it out,” said Thomas. “Basements or small interior rooms away from windows are the safest places during a tornado.”
Travel during the storm hours is strongly discouraged. Local emergency managers stress that driving during tornado warnings or heavy storms could be deadly due to poor visibility, flying debris, or rapidly changing conditions.
The Minneapolis Office of Emergency Management stated that sandbags are available at public works locations for residents in flood-prone areas, though widespread flooding is not the primary concern today.
Weather forecasters and emergency management officials will continue providing updates throughout the day. Warnings will be issued by the National Weather Service as necessary, and local media outlets will also carry live coverage.
Residents can find ongoing information through trusted sources such as FOX 9, KSTP 5 Eyewitness News, and Minnesota Public Radio (MPR News).
National severe weather concerns
Today’s storm system is not just a local threat. The broader severe weather outbreak stretches from Wisconsin down to Texas, impacting millions of Americans. Areas at high risk include northern Iowa, western Wisconsin, eastern Nebraska, Missouri, and parts of Kansas and Oklahoma.
Large cities such as Madison, Des Moines, Kansas City, and Dallas are also monitoring storm threats, particularly for large hail, destructive winds, and possible long-track tornadoes.
The Storm Prediction Center warns that some of today’s storms could remain dangerous after sunset, increasing risks for communities across the Midwest and Plains.
Quick tips to stay safe
- Monitor weather alerts continuously.
- Have multiple ways to receive warnings.
- Secure outdoor objects.
- Charge electronic devices.
- Identify and practice getting to your shelter area.
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