NEXT Weather Alert Wednesday in Twin Cities due to possible severe storms

MINNEAPOLIS — Along with the oppressive heat and humidity, Wednesday is a NEXT Weather Alert day due to possible severe storms.

Wednesday's high will be around 90 degrees in the metro. Storms will develop west and move east out of the Dakotas, arriving in the metro in the late afternoon to evening hours and continuing beyond sunset.

There is an enhanced risk of severe weather — 3 on a scale of 5 — in the southwestern corner of the state and the western Minnesota River Valley. Wind damage and large hail are the main concerns.

There is also a slight risk — 2 on a scale of 5 — in a wide, northwest-to-southeast swath of the state, including the metro.

Severe weather alerts

The National Weather Service has issued severe thunderstorm warnings for Meeker, Stearns and Kandiyohi counties in central Minnesota, with those expected to expire at 3:30 p.m.

A severe thunderstorm watch is also in effect for parts of northern Minnesota and much of west-central Minnesota, including some areas as far east as St. Cloud. According to the NEXT Weather team, there may be additional watches issued for southwestern Minnesota, or the metro area, before the evening is done.

What's next?

Storms hang around overnight into Thursday but will depart in the early morning hours. Thursday's high will be in the lower 80s.

Friday and Saturday will both feature highs around 90 with sunshine.

Temps will drop slightly on Sunday, which will bring our next chance for a passing storm. Highs are trending towards the upper 70s early next week.

Keeping cool in the heat and humidity

With highs near 90 on tap for Wednesday, summer camps are preparing to change plans and beat the heat.

Brigid Murphy, the programs coordinator at St. Paul's Como Park Zoo and Conservatory, says one thing is true.

"We are all trying to stay cool here at the zoo even the animals," Murphy said.

The sea lions won't be the only ones splashing around because campgoers will be joining them.

"We might change our afternoon plans instead of taking a long hike to Como Lake for fishing we might actually have campers bring a swimsuit, a towel and send them through the sprinkler," she said.

For Camp Como, activities are weather-dependent and change to ensure the safety of children.

Zookeepers also change things to accommodate animals on hot days. One class even makes popsicles that they give to polar bears on hot days.

Health leaders recommend drinking plenty of fluids and taking frequent breaks in the shade on these summer days.