Severe Thunderstorm Watch Issued for St. Cloud Area Amid Dangerous Heat

(KNSI) – A Severe Thunderstorm Watch is in effect for the St. Cloud metro area and much of central and southern Minnesota until 12:00 a.m. Tuesday.

The National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center says the watch covers Benton, Stearns and Sherburne counties, along with roughly 30 other Minnesota counties including Mille Lacs, Morrison, Wright, Meeker and Kandiyohi.

The watch comes as dangerous heat settles over the region. According to the National Weather Service office in Chanhassen, central and southern Minnesota is dealing with very hot and humid conditions, with heat index values climbing to between 100 and 110 degrees. Forecasters say little cooling relief is expected overnight.

The Weather Service says there is a low chance for thunderstorms this evening, but warns that any storms that do develop could be severe and produce heavy rain.

Hot and humid conditions are expected to continue through the week, with daily heat index values topping out between 95 and 100 degrees. Thunderstorm chances will persist through most of the week, and forecasters say severe storms and locally heavy rainfall remain possible during that stretch.

Residents across the St. Cloud area are encouraged to stay weather aware, keep up with the latest forecasts and make sure they have a reliable way to receive warnings, especially overnight when storms could move through.

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