Minnesota Weather Alert: Cooler Air Brings Crisp Nights to Twin Cities and Statewide Through Early Week

MINNEAPOLIS, MN — Minnesota is getting its first real taste of autumn as a sharp cooldown sweeps across the state this weekend, with forecasters calling for daytime highs in the 60s and overnight lows dipping into the 40s across much of the region. The cooler pattern, which began Saturday, is expected to linger through at least Tuesday, August 26, with the coldest mornings likely on Monday and Tuesday.

Cooling Trend Hits Twin Cities and Beyond

According to the National Weather Service Twin Cities office, temperatures will remain well below normal for late August. Areas including Mankato, Red Wing, and Saint Cloud could see lows in the mid-40s, while spots further north and west — like Alexandria, Mora, and Ladysmith — may fall as low as 42 degrees on crisp early mornings.

The Minneapolis–St. Paul metro area will be slightly milder, but still cooler than usual. Lows are forecast in the upper 40s, with daytime highs struggling to reach 67°F by Tuesday afternoon.

Impact on Residents and Outdoor Plans

The cooldown comes after weeks of summer warmth, meaning residents will feel the sudden shift. Campers, joggers, and early commuters are being urged to prepare for jacket weather in the mornings. Outdoor evening events — from community gatherings to high school football scrimmages — will also feel distinctly cooler compared to recent weeks.

While no frost is expected, experts say it’s a reminder that the state is transitioning toward fall conditions. Residents are encouraged to stay updated on forecasts in case of additional advisories, especially in outlying counties.

Five-Day Forecast for Minneapolis

Here’s what residents in the Twin Cities can expect:

• Friday: High 76, Low 64 — partly sunny.
• Saturday: High 66, Low 54 — cooler with evening clouds.
• Sunday: High 63, Low 52 — breezy and cool.
• Monday: High 63, Low 47 — crisp morning, sunny afternoon.
• Tuesday: High 69, Low 44 — bright skies, chilly start.

Seasonal Shift and Climate Outlook

Meteorologists note that Minnesota’s transition to fall often begins with sudden cold snaps like this one. While summer heat could still return in spurts during September, the pattern shows that longer nights and shorter days are already pushing temperatures lower.

This stretch of cooler weather is not unusual, but it marks one of the earliest stretches of consistent sub-50° lows for much of the state. If trends continue, forecasters say September could bring more frequent 40-degree mornings, especially in rural and northern areas.

What Residents Should Do

• Dress in layers: Mornings will feel chilly, but afternoons will still be pleasant in the 60s.
• Plan ahead for outdoor events: Evening gatherings may require jackets or blankets.
• Monitor updates: While frost is not in the forecast now, the sudden temperature swings highlight the need to stay aware as fall approaches.

Minnesota’s weather is making a dramatic seasonal turn as a blast of cool air ushers in crisp nights and refreshing days. While there’s no frost risk yet, the next few days will remind residents from the Twin Cities to the outlying counties that fall is just around the corner.