Minneapolis Thaws Out: Unseasonable Sunshine Sparks 'The Big Melt' Across the Twin Cities

A Rare February Reprieve

Minneapolis residents are waking up to a surprising shift in the winter narrative this Friday, February 13, 2026. While February is typically synonymous with bone-chilling temperatures and heavy snowpack, today marks the beginning of what local meteorologists are calling 'The Big Melt.' A surge of unseasonably warm air has moved into the region, promising a day of brilliant sunshine and temperatures that feel more like early April than mid-February.

Morning: A Crisp but Sunny Start

The day began with a chilly but manageable start. At 7:00 AM, temperatures hovered around 30°F, with a light breeze from the west-southwest at approximately 8 mph. Despite the frost on windshields, the sky remained perfectly clear, allowing the sun to begin its work early. By mid-morning, around 10:00 AM, the mercury has already climbed to 35°F. Commuters can enjoy dry roads and high visibility, as there is currently a near-zero percent chance of precipitation for the morning hours.

Afternoon: Peak Warmth and High Spirits

The highlight of the day occurs this afternoon. Between 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM, Minneapolis is expected to hit a high of 46°F, nearly 20 degrees above the historical average for this date. The unseasonable warmth is accompanied by clear, bright skies, making it an ideal day for outdoor activities. Whether taking a walk along the Chain of Lakes or grabbing lunch in the North Loop, the atmosphere is decidedly tranquil. Wind speeds will remain steady but gentle, peaking around 8 to 9 mph, which prevents any significant wind chill from dampening the pleasant conditions.

Evening: Clear Skies and a Gentle Cool Down

As the sun sets, the temperature will begin a gradual descent but will remain relatively mild for a February night. By 7:00 PM, we expect to see 37°F, slowly dipping toward the freezing mark of 32°F by midnight. The skies will remain clear to partly cloudy throughout the night. While the chance of snow is non-existent for this evening, humidity levels around 63% may lead to some light mist or frost on surfaces by early Saturday morning as the air cools.

Safety Alerts and Wind Warnings

While there are no active wind or rain warnings, the National Weather Service and local officials have issued a cautionary notice regarding 'The Big Melt.' The sudden rise in temperatures poses a significant risk to ice safety. Residents are urged to stay off frozen ponds and lakes, as the warming trend has created deadly thin ice conditions. Additionally, while the lack of rain is a relief, the runoff from melting snow may lead to slick spots in shaded areas once temperatures drop below freezing overnight. Keep the sunglasses handy, but keep the ice skates tucked away for now.