Smoky skies create poor air quality across Minnesota this weekend
An air quality alert is in effect for all of Minnesota through Monday morning.
Minnesota
Breaking Local News, NEXT Weather & Community Journalism
Latest News
More
2 hurt, gunman dead after shootout with St. Paul officers in Cub Foods
Two people are injured and a suspect is dead after a shooting in St. Paul, Minnesota, on Friday afternoon, which police say involved at least one officer firing a weapon.
Minnesota K-9 unit heads to flood-ravaged Texas, Walz says
Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz says one of the state's elite K-9 units is heading to central Texas to aid in search and recovery efforts following the devastating floods.
The air quality could cause health problems, doctors warn to limit time outside
The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency has issued a statewide air quality alert through 9 a.m. Monday because of Canadian wildfire smoke.
Special election set for slain Rep. Melissa Hortman's seat
Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz has called a special election to fill the seat formerly held by Democratic House Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman, who authorities say was assassinated at her Twin Cities home in June.
Buxton hits for the cycle on his bobblehead day as Twins beat Pirates, 12-4
All-Star center fielder Byron Buxton hit for the cycle on his bobblehead day, completing it with a solo home run in the seventh inning, and the Minnesota Twins routed the Pittsburgh Pirates 12-4.
Major road closures scheduled across Twin Cities this weekend
Those traveling around the Twin Cities this summer weekend should be ready to come up against some road closures. The Minnesota Department of Transportation is notifying commuters of a few new ones.
Target's commercial employees to return to the office three days a week
Target's commercial unit employees are being asked to return to the office at least three days a week.
2 men charged in what could be Minnesota's largest drug bust ever
Two men are facing criminal charges after authorities seized hundreds of pounds of methamphetamine in Minneapolis this week in what one agency calls possibly "the largest drug bust in Minnesota — ever."
NEXT Weather Forecast
Latest Radars
NEXT Weather Headlines
Minnesota K-9 unit heads to flood-ravaged Texas, Walz says
Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz says one of the state's elite K-9 units is heading to central Texas to aid in search and recovery efforts following the devastating floods.
Looking back on one of Minnesota's worst floods
In 2007, deadly flash floods forced people to evacuate homes and campgrounds in southeastern Minnesota.
Minnesota officials meeting to discuss lessons from Texas flooding
Emergency managers in the Northland on Tuesday met with the National Weather Service to strengthen their working relationships in the wake of the Kerrville, Texas, disaster.
Latest Videos
MoreLatest Videos
NEXT Weather: 6 p.m. weather report for Saturday, July 12, 2025
We have an air quality alert in place until Monday morning. Sunday will be in the 80s, and Monday will be in the 90s. Katie Steiner breaks down the timing and shares when we could see rain again.
Stearns County updates list of "no wake" lakes
The recent lake has caused water levels to rise at several Stearns County lakes. The sheriff's office has updated their list of no wake lakes.
Experts warn about health issues during air quality alert
Most of Minnesota is under an air quality alert. Experts warn that the air quality could lead to health concerns.
Sen. Mitchell trial, road closures and other headlines for July 12, 2025
Updates on the news headlines of the day.
Gov. Walz sends Minnesota K-9 unit to aid in Texas flood recovery
The devastating floods in Texas have killed at least 121 people, with search and recovery crews still looking for 170-plus people one week later.
Sports News
More
Buxton hits for the cycle on his bobblehead day as Twins beat Pirates, 12-4
All-Star center fielder Byron Buxton hit for the cycle on his bobblehead day, completing it with a solo home run in the seventh inning, and the Minnesota Twins routed the Pittsburgh Pirates 12-4.
Chicago Sky beats Minnesota Lynx 87-81
Ariel Atkins scored 27 points, Angel Reese and Kamilla Cardoso each had a double-double and the Chicago Sky beat the Minnesota Lynx 87-81.
How a Minneapolis teacher is providing opportunities for local hoopers
A Minneapolis teacher is helping high school basketball players get one more look from college coaches.
Carlos Correa sprains ankle when baserunner slides into him
Minnesota Twins shortstop Carlos Correa had to be helped off the field after injuring his right ankle when Pittsburgh's Tommy Pham slid into him at second base.
Marc Lore and Alex Rodriguez share plans for Timberwolves, Lynx
Alex Rodriguez remembers a very specific lesson that longtime New York Yankees owner George Steinbrenner taught him over the years. In a way, it'll shape his approach when it comes to running the Minnesota Timberwolves and Lynx.
Good Question
More
Why do we light fireworks on July 4?
A big part of the upcoming July Fourth holiday involves marveling at explosions in the sky.
Why are salt and pepper the top seasonings?
It's a pairing so perfect that their names have come to symbolize dynamic duos. They're a staple from restaurant tables to kitchen tables.
Could the death penalty happen in Minnesota?
The high-profile assassination of a top Minnesota lawmaker and her husband could bring about a form of punishment long banned in the state.
What is summer fatigue? How to manage energy levels during peak heat.
How do you know it's not something more serious, like heat exhaustion? Doctors say heat exhaustion can sneak up on a person quickly if they don't pay attention to the symptoms.
What are the best practices when it comes to laundry?
The average American family washes about 300 loads of laundry per year.
Community Journalism
More
Annual Minnesota lemonade stand raises funds, awareness for disability
A young man with a heart as big as his smile dedicated a hot summer day to helping others like him. Joe Carr has been organizing an annual fundraiser by setting up a lemonade stand in Richfield for a decade now.
St. Anthony Park celebrates 78th "4th in the Park"
For 78 years in St. Paul, neighbors have lined the streets of St. Anthony Park each Independence Day, claiming a patch of grass to take part of Minnesota's longest-running Fourth of July Tradition: Fourth in the Park.
Bemidji kicks off 81st Water Carnival despite recent destructive storm
Through each limb and downed power line, organizers visualized one of the city's largest summer events, the 81st annual Water Carnival, happening on time.
Century-old Gold Medal Flour ad discovered in Minneapolis
George Johnson discovered a century-old Gold Medal Flour ad hidden beneath layers of wood and weather.
Latest Galleries
More
Every new food, drink and vendor at the 2025 Minnesota State Fair
The Minnesota State Fair has unveiled its new food, drinks and vendors for 2025.
Notable Deaths in 2024
A look back at the esteemed personalities who've left us this year, who'd touched us with their innovation, creativity and humanity.
Attack on Pearl Street Mall in Boulder
A suspect was taken into custody after an attack on Pearl Street Mall in Boulder on June 1 in which there were 15 people and a dog who were victims. The suspect threw Molotov cocktails that burned some of the victims, who were part of a march for Israeli hostages.
Gallery: Vietnam through the lens of Arthur Phillips Sr.
WCCO photojournalist Art Phillips shares some personal family photos taken by his father, Arthur Phillips Sr., in Vietnam during his time in service.
Twin Cities News
More Twin Cities News
The air quality could cause health problems, doctors warn to limit time outside
The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency has issued a statewide air quality alert through 9 a.m. Monday because of Canadian wildfire smoke.
Target's commercial employees to return to the office three days a week
Target's commercial unit employees are being asked to return to the office at least three days a week.
Revamped "AirFair" returns to Flying Cloud Airport
AirFair, the annual aviation celebration organized by Wings Of the North, returned to Minnesota on Saturday after a one-year hiatus, turning a portion of Eden Prairie's Flying Cloud Airport into a one-of-a-kind chance to see aircraft up close.
Man found shot in south Minneapolis alley, 1 in custody, police say
A man is fighting for his life and another is in custody following a shooting late Friday night in south Minneapolis.
Marc Lore and Alex Rodriguez share plans for Timberwolves, Lynx
Alex Rodriguez remembers a very specific lesson that longtime New York Yankees owner George Steinbrenner taught him over the years. In a way, it'll shape his approach when it comes to running the Minnesota Timberwolves and Lynx.
Greater Minnesota News
More Greater Minnesota News
The air quality could cause health problems, doctors warn to limit time outside
The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency has issued a statewide air quality alert through 9 a.m. Monday because of Canadian wildfire smoke.
"No wake" rules updated for several lakes in Stearns County
Stearns County has updated their no wake restrictions for several lakes throughout the county. The rule is in place for all watercraft uses within 300 feet of shorelines.
Motorist killed in crash between Prius, Ford F-450 near Bowlus
A motorist was killed in a crash between a Toyota Prius and a Ford F-450 truck on Friday afternoon in central Minnesota.
Police searching for armed robbers who targeted Cloquet Kwik Trip
Police in Cloquet, Minnesota, are searching for two suspects in the armed robbery of a Kwik Trip gas station early Saturday morning.
2 young men charged with attempted murder in Mankato shooting
Two young men are accused of walking up to a residential garage in Mankato, Minnesota, and opening fire at two people inside as part of an apparent ongoing dispute.
Wisconsin News
More Wisconsin News
New lawsuit seeks to redraw Wisconsin's congressional maps before 2026 midterms
A new lawsuit challenges Wisconsin's congressional district maps, claiming they are unconstitutional due to anti-competitive gerrymandering.
Ex-Navy SEAL launches bid for Wis. governor comparing self to Trump
A former Navy SEAL and businessman has entered Wisconsin's 2026 governor's race, likening himself to President Donald Trump and promising a "Wisconsin First" agenda.
Bowling ball-sized ice tears through Wisconsin roof
"I looked up there and I thought, holy Christ, it got hit by a piece of ice," Lonny Piche said.
Wis. Supreme Court clears the way for LGBTQ+ conversion therapy ban
The Wisconsin Supreme Court ruled that a Republican-controlled legislative committee's rejection of a state agency rule that would ban the practice of conversion therapy for LGBTQ+ people was unconstitutional.
1 dead in western Wisconsin crash Sunday
Authorities say a man is dead after a multi-vehicle crash early Sunday afternoon in western Wisconsin.
Politics
More Politics
Minnesota K-9 unit heads to flood-ravaged Texas, Walz says
Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz says one of the state's elite K-9 units is heading to central Texas to aid in search and recovery efforts following the devastating floods.
Gov. Walz sends Minnesota K-9 unit to aid in Texas flood recovery
The devastating floods in Texas have killed at least 121 people, with search and recovery crews still looking for 170-plus people one week later.
Trump announces 30% tariffs against Mexico, EU to begin on Aug. 1
President Trump announced on social media that he is levying 30% tariffs against Mexico and the European Union. They are set to begin on Aug. 1.
Here's what to know about the trial of Minnesota Sen. Nicole Mitchell
The burglary trial for a Minnesota state Sen. Nicole Mitchell begins on Monday. The DFL state senator is charged with breaking into her stepmother's home in 2024.
Special election in September will fill slain Rep. Melissa Hortman’s seat
A date is now set for the special election to fill former House Speaker Melissa Hortman's seat.
Consumer News
More Consumer News
Mpls. City Council approves price increase on e-cigarettes
The Minneapolis City Council approved changes to its tobacco ordinance on Thursday, raising prices on e-cigarettes and tightening restrictions on retailers.
Pool contractor changes attorney instead of plea in federal fraud case
A pool contractor at the center of a WCCO investigation was expected to change his plea to guilty on Wednesday. Instead, he changed attorneys.
Cafe & Bar Lurcat in Minneapolis to close after more than 2 decades
Cafe & Bar Lurcat, a longtime destination near Loring Park in Minneapolis, will close at the end of this summer, as announced Tuesday by its owners. It is another from a growing list of Twin Cities restaurant staples that are calling it quits.
Ruck's recalls sausages due to possible bacteria contamination
A Minnesota meat processing plant is voluntarily recalling multiple products that may be contaminated with bacteria that can cause a "potentially serious disease," the state agriculture department said.
U of M professor shares what's at stake for businesses amid trade talks
New tariff rates are set to go live next month, but the effects on Minnesota small business owners could be felt in a matter of days.
Crime News
More Crime News
Police searching for armed robbers who targeted Cloquet Kwik Trip
Police in Cloquet, Minnesota, are searching for two suspects in the armed robbery of a Kwik Trip gas station early Saturday morning.
2 young men charged with attempted murder in Mankato shooting
Two young men are accused of walking up to a residential garage in Mankato, Minnesota, and opening fire at two people inside as part of an apparent ongoing dispute.
Man found shot in south Minneapolis alley, 1 in custody, police say
A man is fighting for his life and another is in custody following a shooting late Friday night in south Minneapolis.
Man sentenced in 2023 fatal shooting of Twin Cities chef
The February 2023 shooting resulted in the deaths of two people, including Larry "Chef Hot Hands" Jiles Jr., and injured three others, officials said.
2 hurt, man dies by suicide after police shootout in St. Paul store
Two people are injured and a suspect is dead after a shooting in St. Paul, Minnesota, on Friday afternoon, which police say involved at least one officer firing a weapon.
Health News
More Health News
COVID cases likely rising in half of states, CDC estimates
Many Southeast, Southern and West Coast states are likely seeing an increase in COVID cases.
Minn. poison control sees boom in mushroom exposure calls
A warm, wet summer weather means wild mushrooms are multiplying, and poison control calls are increasing.
New addiction center hopes to remove barriers to treatment
At Northwoods Haven, they hope providing free, timely intervention now will lead to better outcomes.
Health care workers in Stillwater begin 4-day strike
Health care workers in Stillwater, Minnesota, kicked off a four-day unfair labor practice strike Monday.
Ruck's recalls sausages due to possible bacteria contamination
A Minnesota meat processing plant is voluntarily recalling multiple products that may be contaminated with bacteria that can cause a "potentially serious disease," the state agriculture department said.
Entertainment News
More Entertainment News
Paul McCartney to play U.S. Bank Stadium in October
Minneapolis' U.S. Bank Stadium will host Paul McCartney in what organizers touted as one of the biggest shows in Minnesota history.
Public safety limits Taste of Minnesota crowd, disappointing some guests
There were growing frustrations from Taste of Minnesota ticketholders after many were turned away Sunday.
Michael Madsen, actor known for "Reservoir Dogs," dies at age 67
Michael Madsen apparently went into cardiac arrest and was found unresponsive in his home in Malibu, California, on Thursday morning, according to his manager.
Sean "Diddy" Combs to remain detained ahead of sentencing
Sean "Diddy" Combs was found guilty of two prostitution-related charges, but acquitted of sex trafficking and racketeering charges.
Sean "Diddy" Combs acquitted of sex trafficking, convicted on lesser charges
The verdict in the Sean "Diddy" Combs trial comes after the high-profile proceedings started in May.