Rain and thunder coverage increases Tuesday

April showers are here a little late this year. Like May 8.

A spring low-pressure system spawns a couple waves of showers and thunderstorms Tuesday. Most of Minnesota can use a good soaking rain. Most of us will get more than an inch by Saturday. Wave No. 1 arrives Tuesday.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's High-Resolution Rapid Refresh model paints one wave of morning showers, followed by scattered thunderstorms developing late Tuesday afternoon and evening.

Severe risk for southwestern Minnesota

There is a marginal risk a few storms could reach severe status with strong winds and large hail this evening in southwestern Minnesota.

Looking at severe parameters Tuesday, I think a few of the storms could get feisty and approach severe limits around the Twin Cities late Tuesday afternoon and evening. Hail and gusty winds are possible. There's enough helicity (spin) in the lower levels I can't rule out an isolated tornado southwest of the Twin Cities.

Keep one ear tuned to your NOAA weather radio or weather app late this afternoon and evening.

Soaking rains

Tuesday's first rain wave delivers about one-quarter to three-quarters of an inch for most of Minnesota. Friday's wave will bring another one-half to 1 inch-plus. Many of us will see 1 to 2 inches-plus rainfall by Saturday.

Chilly later this week, warmer next week

Temperatures plunge late this week. It look's like the rain may linger into Saturday. We likely salvage the last half of the weekend with a nice Mother's Day. Warmer weather arrives again next week. Get ready for the annual explosion of green.

Highs next week will mostly be in the 70s, with another 80 degree day possible.

Stay tuned.