A Welcome Winter Thaw: Sunny Skies and Mild Temperatures Take Over Minneapolis

Morning Conditions: A Crisp and Clearing Start

As residents of the Twin Cities wake up this Thursday morning, February 26, 2026, they are being greeted by a refreshing change of pace from the typical late-winter chill. The day began with temperatures hovering in the high teens, but as of mid-morning, the mercury is steadily climbing toward the 20°F mark. While some lingering cloud cover was present at dawn, skies are rapidly clearing to provide a bright, sun-filled morning. Winds remain light and manageable, coming from the west at approximately 5 mph, which has kept wind chill values relatively close to the actual air temperature.

Afternoon Outlook: Sun-Drenched Streets and Rising Temps

The headline for today’s weather is the significant warm-up expected through the afternoon hours. Forecasters are predicting a peak temperature that will feel more like late March than late February. High-pressure systems are allowing for an abundance of sunshine that will dominate the majority of the daylight hours.

• Temperature Peak: Expect a steady afternoon climb to a high near 42°F.
• Sky Conditions: Mostly sunny skies will prevail, though a few high-altitude wispy clouds may appear by late afternoon.
• Wind Profile: Winds will shift slightly to the southwest, maintaining a gentle speed of 5 to 10 mph, which will help pull in the milder air mass.
• Precipitation: There is a very low 10% chance of any stray flurries during the day; for most of the metro area, it will remain entirely dry.

Evening and Overnight: Clouds Return

As we transition into the evening, the clear conditions will slowly give way to increasing cloud cover. While the day has been exceptionally mild, the overnight period will see a return to more seasonal temperatures. By 7:00 PM, temperatures will likely sit near 30°F before descending into the mid-20s.

• Evening Trend: Temperatures will drop to an overnight low of approximately 25°F to 29°F.
• Late-Night Moisture: While the evening should stay dry, clouds will thicken after midnight. There is a small possibility of light snow showers or a wintry mix developing in the pre-dawn hours of Friday, with accumulation expected to be less than a quarter of an inch.

Travel and Safety Reminders

Despite the pleasant sunshine, the Minneapolis News editorial team reminds commuters to stay alert. The significant daytime thaw will cause snow and ice on residential side streets to melt, creating puddles that could easily refreeze into "black ice" as temperatures dip tonight. No major wind advisories or winter weather warnings are currently in effect, making today an ideal window for outdoor chores or a walk through the city’s many parks before the clouds return tonight.