Storms May Roll Through Your Weekend Plans

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- Whether you're celebrating Pride, enjoying some outdoor jazz, taking the dog for a stroll or just hoping to soak in some rays, chances are fairly good that your Saturday plans may end up being interrupted.

A large eastern section of the state, including the Twin Cities, is under an enhanced risk for severe storms. According to WCCO meteorologist Mike Augustyniak, the storms are already building way out to the west of the state, but should move through Minnesota in short order.

The storms have a potential to bring high winds, large hail and perhaps even tornadic activity. Augustyniak said that Saturday could bring deja vu of last weekend's Father's Day storms, where the afternoon went from no storms to explosive development.

The storms began to move into the state in mid-afternoon, but they stayed north of the Twin Cities for most of the evening.

The National Weather Service issued a tornado warning for Aitkin, Carlton and St. Louis counties until 4:15 p.m.

Several counties in northern and central Minnesota were under severe thunderstorm warnings for much of the evening.

By early evening, the storms should have moved into Wisconsin, leaving a cool front to move in behind it.

Power was knocked out briefly in North Branch, Minn., but was quickly restored. There was minor damage to trees and power lines, according to the Chisago County Sheriff's Office.

Augustyniak said that Sunday should be far more comfortable, which should be a relief. The National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory for Saturday as well.

Check WCCO's weather section throughout the day, and download our weather app to monitor the developing weather story.

In:
• Severe Weather