First Alert Day Friday: Thunderstorms are likely A First Alert Day for thunderstorms has been issued for Friday, with heavy rain expected to be the primary threat throughout the day. Late evening storms could reach strong to severe levels, though the overall severe storm threat remains conditional due to the position of the warm front. The Storm Prediction Center has maintained a level 1 out of 5 threat level for southeastern Minnesota and northeastern Iowa. Two rounds of showers and thunderstorms are anticipated to affect the region on Friday. The first round will occur in the morning hours, with storms not expected to be severe but capable of producing heavy rainfall in isolated areas. A brief break from storms is expected in the mid-afternoon. The second round of storms will arrive after 6 p.m., with the potential for a few strong to severe thunderstorms. The main concern for both rounds of activity will be heavy rainfall, with areas south of Interstate 90 possibly receiving 1 to 1.75 inches of rain. Pounding rain and minor flooding could occur if thunderstorms become stationary. Hail is expected to be the primary severe threat in the evening if storms develop, while wind speeds could approach severe criteria in northeastern Iowa. While the tornado threat is low, it cannot be completely ruled out. A minor winter mix, including the possibility of light snow or freezing rain, is expected late Friday night into early Saturday morning. Skies will clear throughout Saturday, with high temperatures in the low 40s. Late spring temperatures will return on Sunday and Monday, with highs in the 60s. However, wintry conditions are expected to return to the region by next Wednesday, with several chances of light snow forecasted late next week.#storm_prediction_center #interstate_90 #tornado_threat #severe_storm_threat #first_alert_day
