Dangerous Heat to Grip Twin Cities as Extreme Heat Warning Takes Effect Through Tuesday
Published: July 12th, 2026
TWIN CITIES: The National Weather Service has issued an Extreme Heat Warning for the Twin Cities metropolitan area, warning that dangerous heat will persist through Tuesday evening as heat index values climb above 100 degrees.
The warning, which begins at 10 a.m. Sunday and continues through 9 p.m. Tuesday, includes Hennepin, Ramsey, Dakota, Anoka, Washington, Scott and Carver counties. Forecasters say the combination of high temperatures and humidity will create hazardous conditions, increasing the risk of heat-related illnesses for anyone spending extended time outdoors.
While the Twin Cities is under the highest level of heat alert, a Heat Advisory remains in effect for much of central Minnesota, portions of southern Minnesota and western Wisconsin, where heat index values are expected to approach 100 degrees. Even areas outside of official heat headlines could still experience heat index values between 95 and 100 degrees, according to the National Weather Service.
Another concern is the lack of overnight relief. Overnight low temperatures are expected to remain in the low to mid-70s, making it more difficult for homes without air conditioning to cool down and increasing the risk of heat stress over multiple consecutive days.
The National Weather Service urges residents to:
Drink plenty of water, even if you do not feel thirsty.
Limit strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day.
Spend time in air-conditioned buildings whenever possible.
Check on older adults, young children and anyone without access to adequate cooling.
Never leave children or pets unattended inside vehicles.
Forecasters say updated heat information will be issued as needed, but dangerous conditions are expected to continue across the Twin Cities and much of Minnesota through at least Tuesday evening.