Freeze Watch Issued for Much of Minnesota and Western Wisconsin Friday Night/Sat Morning
Published: October 15th 2026.
NWS Twin Cities Graphic
TWIN CITIES MN - A Freeze Watch has been issued for large portions of Minnesota and western Wisconsin from late Friday night, October 16th, through Saturday morning, October 17th, as temperatures could drop below freezing.
The watch covers portions of central, east-central, south-central, southeastern, southwestern and west-central Minnesota, along with northwestern and west-central Wisconsin.
According to the National Weather Service (NWS) Twin Cities, sub-freezing temperatures are possible, creating conditions that could damage or kill crops, sensitive vegetation and outdoor plants.
The freezing temperatures could also potentially damage unprotected outdoor plumbing.
Residents are encouraged to take precautions ahead of the cold weather, including bringing sensitive plants indoors or covering them to prevent damage.
A Freeze Watch means conditions are favorable for freezing temperatures, but a freeze is not yet certain. Residents should continue monitoring weather updates as the weekend approaches.