MINNEAPOLIS, June 29, 2025 — In a tense and fast-developing weather emergency, Minnesota tornado warnings blared across the Twin Cities metro overnight, forcing residents indoors as two tornadoes were confirmed on the ground. Sirens pierced the night in cities including Minnetonka, Hopkins, Savage, and Edina as rotating supercells moved across the region, toppling trees and knocking out power to thousands.
Radar picked up debris signatures just before 12:45 a.m., prompting the National Weather Service to issue emergency alerts across several counties. The warnings stretched from Waconia and Cologne eastward toward Eden Prairie and Minneapolis. Outdoor warning systems and smartphone alerts activated nearly simultaneously, urging residents to seek shelter immediately.
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Latest Update: Power Outages, Tornado Activity in the Metro
Emergency response teams and utility companies are now actively assessing damage from last night’s storms. Below is a quick breakdown of major events following the Minnesota tornado warnings:
| Time | Event | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 12:30 a.m. | Sirens Activated | Sounded across Minnetonka, Hopkins, and western suburbs |
| 12:40 a.m. | Tornadoes Spotted | Debris detected on radar near Waconia and Cologne |
| 12:45 a.m. | Power Grid Affected | Thousands without power as trees fell onto power lines |
| 1:00 a.m. | Warning Still Active | Alerts extended across most of the Twin Cities area |
| Ongoing | Damage Assessment and Restoration | Emergency crews working to clear debris and restore power |
Minnesota Tornado Warnings Leave Residents Rattled
This latest round of Minnesota tornado warnings has disrupted daily life and heightened anxiety across the metro. Residents took to their basements, closets, and safe rooms, many experiencing severe weather like this for the first time this season.
People across social media shared videos and photos of illuminated night skies, howling winds, and toppled branches. In some areas, sirens blared well before any rainfall began, heightening the surreal tension.
While no major injuries have been reported so far, emergency medical teams have been dispatched to areas with downed power lines and damaged property. Officials are urging residents to stay indoors and avoid flooded or debris-covered roads.
Why This Storm Stands Out
The intensity and speed of this storm took even seasoned Minnesotans by surprise. Though summer tornado activity is not unusual in the state, this particular cell developed rapidly, generating wind gusts of up to 70 mph and producing visible funnel clouds over populated suburbs.
Key reasons this event was particularly disruptive:
- Multiple tornado signatures: Debris fields and rotation patterns indicated more than one tornado was active at once.
- Dense population: Warnings affected densely populated neighborhoods, including suburban business districts.
- Infrastructure vulnerability: Trees fell across power lines, blocking roads and causing extensive power loss.
What To Do if You’re Affected
If you’re currently in the Twin Cities or surrounding areas affected by the Minnesota tornado warnings, here’s what you should know:
- Stay Sheltered: Remain in a basement or interior room until you’re officially informed it’s safe to leave.
- Avoid Roads: Do not attempt to drive through water-covered or debris-strewn streets.
- Check On Neighbors: Especially those elderly or disabled who may be without power or communication.
- Prepare For More: Additional weather watches are possible as warm, humid air continues fueling unstable conditions.
Key Takeaways from Last Night’s Tornado Emergency
- Tornadoes were confirmed near Waconia and Cologne.
- Sirens were triggered across most of the Twin Cities metro.
- Thousands are still without power, with cleanup operations underway.
- Residents responded quickly and responsibly to emergency warnings.
- Damage assessments will continue throughout the day.
Stay Ready: More Severe Weather Could Follow
With atmospheric conditions still volatile, Minnesotans are being advised to stay alert throughout the day. Weather officials caution that more storms could develop during the evening hours. While today’s activity may ease by morning, preparedness remains key.
Residents are encouraged to have:
- Fully charged phones
- Flashlights and batteries
- A plan for where to shelter if sirens sound again
- Emergency radios or weather apps enabled
The Minnesota tornado warnings last night served as a powerful reminder of nature’s unpredictability. Whether or not additional storms occur in the next 24 hours, this event highlights the importance of readiness, community response, and respect for emergency systems designed to save lives.
Stay safe. Stay informed. And stay prepared.
Sign up for your county’s emergency alert system and keep your weather radio turned on at night to stay ahead of any further tornado warnings across Minnesota.