Welcomed rain in southwest Minnesota

Once again the extreme southwest corner of Minnesota and Sioux Falls, S.D. were shorted on the rainfall in the past 24 hours. While Marshall picked up 1.68 inches of rain, Sioux Falls tallied less than a quarter inch (0.16).

Estimated rainfall totals past 24 hours. Source: NOAA/Wunderground.com

Prior to strong storms firing up in southwest Minnesota on Wednesday afternoon, the mercury soared to 99 at Marshall and a record 102 degrees at Sioux Falls.

The heat index reached 100 dgrees in the Twin Cities in the afternoon hours. The maximum temperature in both Minneapolis and St. Paul was 92 degrees, with dew points in the lower 70s. It is interesting to note that with the dew point of only 55 at Sioux Falls, with a temperature of 101 at the time, their heat index was 100 degrees. it is indeed about the humidity when it comes to the feels-like temperature in the summer.

Thursday's expected maximum temperatures. Source: NOAA NWS

Temperatures will be more comfortable today but still summerlike. Look for afternoon readings only in the upper 70s in far northern Minnesota.

A stronger cool front is forecast to sweep through the upper Midwest on Friday night. This will bring a good chance for showers and thunderstorms to much of Minnesota later on Friday and Friday night.

NOAA's predicted rainfall for Friday into early Saturday morning.

On Saturday the passing cold front will usher in brisk northwest winds with a mixture of clouds and sun in the afternoon. You'll notice the change in the air mass.

Stand up and cheer if you embrace cooler temperatures -- on Sunday northwest winds will ease and plenty of sunshine should make for a comfortable afternoon.

1 p.m. CDT temperatures, wind and pressure. Source: GFS model/College of Dupage