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Fall colors are starting to show for parts of Minnesota, thanks to the extended period of above-average temperatures. The weekend outlook indicates spotty shower chances, along with a significant temperature drop expected for Sunday.

There’s a significant shift in the fall colors map for northern Minnesota, with areas like the Red River Valley and the Iron Range displaying the most notable changes. The Twin Cities is currently showing at least a little change, with zero-10 percent leaf color progression. However, areas near Fort Snelling State Park are seeing a bit more, with 10-25 percent change in leaf color.

Bear Head Lake State Park in northeastern Minnesota is at 25-50 percent leaf color progression, with grasses and flowers at 50-75 percent.

If you plan on driving up north to view some of the fall colors, be prepared for spotty rain showers. A cold front will move through late Saturday, bringing isolated showers ahead of it, with southeastern Minnesota having the best chance for rain.

Temperatures will vary greatly across the state on Saturday, with highs in the lower 80s for the metro and southeastern Minnesota, while northern regions can expect cooler temperatures in the 60s and 70s.

Sunday will be a different story with our temperatures dropping to below our average high for the first time in almost two weeks.

Despite the cooler temperatures on Sunday, northern Minnesota will enjoy plenty of sunshine. Meanwhile, southern Minnesota will experience increased cloud cover as a system moves by to the south.

It’s looking like another great weekend to travel to see some fall foliage! 

Mandy Thalhuber

Author

Fall colors are starting to show for parts of Minnesota, thanks to the extended period of above-average temperatures. The weekend outlook indicates spotty shower chances, along with a significant temperature drop expected for Sunday.


Erica Dischino for MPR News

Minnesota Department of Natural Resources

MN DNR

Forecast simulated radar Saturday morning through Saturday evening. 

Fall colors update; weekend outlook

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