Rochester Experiences 2nd Straight Day of Record Heat

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Rochester, MN (KROC-AM News) - What has turned into a record-breaking heatwave continues to fuel severe thunderstorms across Minnesota, but forecasters are predicting gorgeous weather conditions heading into the weekend.

The unofficial high temperature at the Rochester airport this afternoon reached 94-degrees, which easily surpassed the previous record high for May 12 that was set in 1940 when the mercury peaked at 89-degrees. it was the second straight day of record-setting heat in the Rochester area. Wednesday's high temperature of 89-degrees tied a record that was set in 1911.

The heat and humidity could produce additional thunderstorm activity in southeastern Minnesota tonight and there is the potential for some severe weather. The entire state of Minnesota has some level of risk for severe storms, with the National Weather Service putting the highest risk in the central part of the state. Severe storms have already occurred this afternoon in that region, with reports of damaging hail in the St. Cloud area.

As the risk of storms diminishes tomorrow, the current forecast is predicting near-perfect summer weather in the Rochester area. The National Weather Service says the region can expect plenty of sunshine on Friday and Saturday with highs in the upper 70s and low 80s.