St. Paul Emergency Management

04/27/2026

04/23/2026

A Severe Thunderstorm Watch has been issued across portions of central and southern MN and portions of western WI. Cloud cover and our 18z special sounding shows some hinderance in reaching our maximum severe potential however there is enough instability present to where damaging wind gusts along with large hail could still occur with any better organized cells initially. Theses scattered cells will congeal into a QLCS which will transition to mainly a wind threat. TORs cannot be ruled out today as our cloud ceilings are quite low so sufficient low-level shear could make a quick/weak spin up or two. This watch is out until 8 PM tonight.

04/17/2026

We don’t always get a ton of hot weather here in Minnesota, but when it shows up, it can be a bit much.
If your place starts feeling a little too toasty, it’s not a bad idea to head somewhere cool like a library, community center, Saint Paul pool or splash pad, or other cooling space during the hottest part of the day. Even a little time in air conditioning can help you feel a whole lot better.
Make sure you’re drinking plenty of water, taking it easy in the heat, and checking in on neighbors who might not have a cool place to go. We take care of each other around here, dontcha know.

04/17/2026

We don’t get extreme heat every day in Minnesota, but when it shows up, it can be tough on pets. Even on a “not that bad” day, cars heat up fast and pavement can get hotter than you’d think.
If it feels warm to you, it’s even hotter for them.
Bring pets inside when you can, keep water available, and plan walks for the cooler parts of the day.

04/17/2026

Minnesota summers can sneak up on ya when the heat really settles in. What starts as feeling a little worn down can turn serious if you don’t take a break and cool off.
Heat-related illnesses can become serious quickly – even in Minnesota.
Hot weather is a good reminder to slow things down a bit:
-Keep water nearby
-Find some shade or air conditioning when you can
-Check in on neighbors, especially older adults
If something doesn’t feel right, don’t wait it out – getting help quickly matters.
Looking out for each other is just how we do things in Minnesota.

04/16/2026

Ope – sirens are about to sound. It’s almost time, dontcha know.
Minnesota’s tornado drill starts in 15 minutes. Take a couple minutes to practice heading to your safe place and practice your tornado safety plan at home, work, or school.
A quick practice now helps make sure you’re ready when it really counts.

04/16/2026

Ope – if a tornado warning comes through, there’s no time to be standing around wondering where to go.
Best thing you can do is figure out your spot ahead of time. Basement is best. If you don’t have one, go to the lowest level, into an interior room away from windows.
Get low, cover your head, and stay put until the storm passes.
Take a few minutes today to walk through your plan with your household so when the sirens go off, you’re not scrambling.

04/16/2026

Ope – tornado warning. Would you know where to go?
Take a couple minutes today to practice heading to your safe place – it helps to be ready ahead of time, dontcha know.
Basement is best. If you don’t have one, go to the lowest level of your home, into an interior room away from windows.
Minnesota’s statewide tornado drills are a great chance to make sure everyone at home, work, or school knows the plan before severe weather rolls in.