A Forecast First Alert is in the forecast for Tuesday, the 4th of July. Minnesota’s Weather Authority is monitoring a better chance of thunderstorms for much of Minnesota as a cold front arrives from the north and west. This will lead to multiple rounds of showers and thunderstorms.

This morning, isolated storms are possible mainly west of the Twin Cities. Those will start to die out as they reach the Twin Cities late in the morning through the middle of the day. As of now, most parades should go off without a hitch. It will get hot and humid again in the afternoon, with highs in the upper 80s to around 90°. That should be enough to recharge the atmosphere for another round of severe storms later this afternoon through the evening. These storms will likely produce strong winds, hail, and heavy rain, but there is a smaller tornado potential. Given the timing of these storms, fireworks displays could be affected in central and southern Minnesota through western Wisconsin.

As you celebrate the 4th of July, stay tuned to Minnesota’s Weather Authority, and have multiple ways to receive weather warnings, especially if outdoors and on the lakes. If you are planning on going to a fireworks show, you need to have a way to get weather warnings on your phone. The free KSTP mobile app will notify you if there is a severe watch or warning. You also need to know where the nearest shelter is, in case severe weather develops near you. Make sure you have quick access to a sturdy building, and you act as soon as a warning is issued. The exact timing and location of the severe weather is still in question, but you can take some time this morning to make a plan and keep you and your family safe.