COVID levels rise by 50% in Minnesota compared to pre-Thanksgiving levels
New wastewater data from the University of Minnesota shows an uptick in COVID-19 cases statewide.
COVID-19
COVID variant BA.2.86 triples in new CDC estimates
A highly-mutated descendant called JN.1 could be to blame.
More free COVID-19 tests can be ordered now, as uptick looms
The next round of free COVID test orders will ship starting the week of Nov. 27.
2 years after initial illness, Orono woman still dealing with long COVID
April Stovern says more than two years later, she still struggles daily with symptoms that doctors are still working to understand.
Tips for staying healthy at work this sick season
Dr. Lichtsinn said with symptoms so similar, staying home should be your first choice. She believes employers should have some wiggle room.
Do we still need proof of our vaccinations?
The physical card is not a requirement anymore.
Man, sons sentenced to prison after selling bleach as fake COVID-19 cure
A federal judge in Miami sentenced Mark Grenon and his three sons to prison Friday after a jury found them guilty during the summer.
2 scientists share Nobel for enabling COVID-19 vaccines
American Drew Weissman, Hungarian Katalin Karikó win 2023 Nobel Prize in medicine for mRNA research behind "the unprecedented rate" of COVID-19 vaccine development.
Minnesota surpasses 15,000 killed by COVID-19
For the first time, vaccines for all three major respiratory viruses - COVID, RSV and the flu - are available this fall. But the latest COVID shot, which was approved just two weeks ago, is still rolling out.
Looking to get a COVID booster? You might have to wait, doctors say
For the first time, vaccines for all three major respiratory viruses - COVID, RSV and the flu - are available this fall. But the latest COVID shot, which was approved just two weeks ago, is still rolling out.
Looking for free at-home COVID tests? Here’s what to do
The federal government is allowing people to order more at-home COVID tests free of charge. The state of Minnesota is also providing free kits. Click here for more info on free tests from federal government. And click here for state kits.
Free COVID test kits are back. Here's how to get them.
The Biden administration is also pouring $600 million into more COVID tests manufacturing across the U.S.
Doctor's advice on updated COVID vaccine? Get it ASAP
Kirsten Mitchell breaks down what you need to know about the new vaccine.
Updated COVID vaccines rolling out across Minnesota
"This vaccine will really boost all our immunity, especially against all the variants that are out there right now," said Dr. Hannah Lichtsinn.
How do you know if your at-home COVID test is still good to use?
Doctors hope a new vaccine can keep the worst of the virus at bay. But as cases rise, you might find yourself reaching in your medicine cabinet again for an old, at-home test.
For 1st time, updated COVID-19 vax won't be free for all: Here's what Minnesotans should know
Ahead of the rollout of new COVID-19 vaccines, the Minnesota Department of Health is releasing more information to keep in mind, including new costs that may be associated with the vaccine for the first time. Here's what you need to know.
Why the CDC recommends everyone get a new COVID shot this fall
Vaccine experts considered narrower recommendations for only higher-risk groups, but decided almost all Americans could benefit.
FDA and CDC say yes to new COVID shots for fall — here's what to know
The new shots are similar to previously approved formulas but were updated to target strains of the virus descended from Omicron.
Do COVID-19 tests still work after they expire? Here's how to tell.
The FDA has lengthened the shelf lives of some COVID-19 tests that still deliver accurate results past their printed expiration dates.
Jill Biden tests positive for COVID-19
The first lady's positive test came two days after she and President Biden traveled to Delaware from Florida, where they had been visiting communities ravaged by Hurricane Idalia.
COVID hospitalizations on the rise as U.S. enters Labor Day weekend
Retailers and pharmacies are subsequently seeing increased demand for in-person and at-home COVID testing.
Family files suit over man's COVID-19 death in prison
The suit was filed over Ron Rustan's death in December 2020. He had been sentenced to prison after failing a blood alcohol test during the probationary process for a DUI conviction.
As COVID flares, some schools and businesses reinstate mask mandates
In some places, the emergence of new COVID-19 variants is spurring the return of mask requirements and other safety measures.
COVID hospitalizations jump 22% this week — and CDC predicts further increases
So far, the CDC doesn't think the highly mutated BA.2.86 variant is to blame.
What to know about new COVID variants now spreading
On social media, the variants have been nicknamed "Eris," "Fornax" and "Pirola."
CBS News Minnesota — Watch Live 24/7
Latest News
3 arrested after man robbed at gunpoint in Apple Valley
The Apple Valley Police Department says officers were dispatched to the 15100 block of Cedar Avenue for an armed robbery around 10:16 p.m.
Las Vegas police respond to active shooter at UNLV, say suspect is dead
Las Vegas police said there appear to be multiple victims in an active shooter situation on the University of Nevada, Las Vegas campus.
Cougar killed on Golden Valley interstate was a 2-year-old male from Nebraska
Minnesota conservations officials say a cougar that was struck and killed in the west metro was a young male that had traveled hundreds of miles.
Kayvon Madison charged with 2nd-degree murder in Edina parking lot shooting
A Minneapolis man is charged with murder after he allegedly shot another man five times in an Edina parking lot following the birthday celebration of a mutual friend.
Minnesota's one-time tax rebate will be federally taxed, Gov. Walz says he's "deeply disappointed"
More than 2 million Minnesotans received anywhere from $260 to $1,300 in tax rebate payments, as part of the $3 billion One Minnesota budget, signed into law by Gov. Tim Walz in May.
Twin Cities News
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3 arrested after man robbed at gunpoint in Apple Valley
The Apple Valley Police Department says officers were dispatched to the 15100 block of Cedar Avenue for an armed robbery around 10:16 p.m.
Cougar killed on Golden Valley interstate was a 2-year-old male from Nebraska
Minnesota conservations officials say a cougar that was struck and killed in the west metro was a young male that had traveled hundreds of miles.
Kayvon Madison charged with 2nd-degree murder in Edina parking lot shooting
A Minneapolis man is charged with murder after he allegedly shot another man five times in an Edina parking lot following the birthday celebration of a mutual friend.
Minnesota has a $2.4 billion surplus, but a deficit could be looming, state budget officials say
Minnesota's budget surplus estimated to be $2.4B, up $808M from original projection. However, future economic forecasts say a deficit may be looming.
How common are cougars in central Minnesota?
The death of a cougar on a Twin Cities highway, along with a recent sighting in Minneapolis, may have metro residents wondering if the large cats are becoming more common in the area.
Greater Minnesota News
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Minnesota has a $2.4 billion surplus, but a deficit could be looming, state budget officials say
Minnesota's budget surplus estimated to be $2.4B, up $808M from original projection. However, future economic forecasts say a deficit may be looming.
How common are cougars in central Minnesota?
The death of a cougar on a Twin Cities highway, along with a recent sighting in Minneapolis, may have metro residents wondering if the large cats are becoming more common in the area.
Bemidji boy arrested after threats led district to close area schools Wednesday, police say
A boy is in custody for allegedly making threats that led Bemidji Area Schools to make Wednesday an e-learning day.
Bianca Virnig wins state representative special election
Virnig received 58% of the vote and defeated Republican Cynthia Lonnquist.
Minnesota braces for threat of feral pigs from Canada: "They leave a mess"
WCCO's John Lauritsen talked with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and a Canadian professor about the threat feral pigs pose to our state.
Wisconsin News
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Gov. Evers vetoes Wisconsin bill banning gender-affirming care for kids
The veto was expected from Evers, who has vowed to strike down any proposals from the Republican-controlled Wisconsin Legislature that he deems harmful to LGBTQ+ youth.
Wisconsin judge reaffirms July ruling that state law permits consensual abortions
A Wisconsin judge has reaffirmed her ruling this summer that state law permits consensual medical abortions, handing abortion rights advocates a massive victory.
Wisconsin Gov. Evers signs off on $500M plan to fund repairs and upgrades at Brewers stadium
Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers has signed a bill that spends half-a-billion in taxpayer dollars to help the Milwaukee Brewers cover stadium repairs over the next decade.
Limp Bizkit (and Corey Feldman) coming to Somerset Amphitheater next July
Limp Bizkit — under frontman Fred Durst — burned bright and fast during the waning years of the 1990s, most notoriously urging disgruntled crowds at the 1999 edition of Woodstock to "Break Stuff."
Republican leaders of Wisconsin Legislature at odds over withholding university pay raises
The Republican head of the Wisconsin Senate says he wants to see pay raises approved for Universities of Wisconsin employees.
Community Journalism
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Savannah Manzel, Lake Elmo 13-year-old, makes big debut at Radio City Music Hall's "Nutcracker"
When she's not in school, Manzel is at Larkin Dance Studio in Maplewood making herself a better, stronger dancer. That discipline paid off in a big way when she landed the role of a lifetime.
Minnesota hockey community honors teen who died in Washington County crash
A memorial of hockey sticks and flowers marks the spot of the crash in rural Washington County that would eventually take the life of 16-year-old Samson Walters.
Police need help finding missing adult in Bloomington
The Bloomington Police Department are asking for help finding a missing adult
Prep academy aims to help families of soldiers heading to Middle East
Soldiers expecting to deploy soon get an introduction to what they can expect
Chance north Minneapolis encounter leads to new family, outlook on life for young boy
Tyrone Fischer has a new mom and a new outlook on life after a chance encounter five years ago in a street in north Minneapolis.
Politics
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Politics
Talking Points: Climate change is altering what farming zone Minnesota falls into (part 3)
Minnesota's warming winters are impacting what you can grow. That change is reflected in the latest U.S. Department of Agriculture's 2023 plant hardiness zone map. The impact is enormous on the state's $21 billion farm economy. Soybeans have now eclipsed corn, wheat and alfalfa as Minnesota's number one cash crop.
Talking Points: Climate change is altering what farming zone Minnesota falls into (part 2)
Minnesota's warming winters are impacting what you can grow. That change is reflected in the latest U.S. Department of Agriculture's 2023 plant hardiness zone map. Compared to 2012, there has been a significant change for much of Minnesota. But what does this mean for you? According to Julie Weisenhorn, an extension educator of horticulture at the University of Minnesota, this hardiness change opens the possibilities for metro gardeners.
Talking Points: Climate change is altering what farming zone Minnesota falls into (part 1)
Minnesota's warming winters are impacting what you can grow. That change is reflected in the latest U.S. Department of Agriculture's 2023 plant hardiness zone map. Compared to 2012, there has been a significant change for much of Minnesota. WCCO's Director of Meteorology and NEXT Weather Meteorologist Mike Augustyniak said these changes are happening faster in Northern areas like ours.
St. Paul to vote on $820M budget for 2024
The St. Paul City Council will vote Wednesday on next year’s budget, which includes a 3.7% tax levy increase.
Minnesota projected to have another budget surplus
It's estimated that Minnesota is dealing with a $2.4 billion surplus for the current two-year budget cycle — up $808 million from the end-of-session estimate.
Consumer News
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Minnesota's one-time tax rebate will be federally taxed, Gov. Walz says he's "deeply disappointed"
More than 2 million Minnesotans received anywhere from $260 to $1,300 in tax rebate payments, as part of the $3 billion One Minnesota budget, signed into law by Gov. Tim Walz in May.
Metro Transit to enforce fare payment, issue $35 citations starting Monday
Starting Monday, Metro Transit will start issuing citations and fining people who have not paid their fare.
Large snow creature "IT" needs a name at Midtown Global Market
A large, smiling snow creature — which is not frightening at all — needs a name at the Midtown Global Market in Minneapolis.
Arboretum's AppleHouse embraces winter magic with Holiday Boutique
In November, the AppleHouse transforms into a cozy gift shop offering a variety of items, from unique gifts to locally produced goodies, toys, clothes and more.
Report: Inflation impacting Minnesotans more than national average
New numbers from the federal government show the average American needs nearly $11,500 in additional funds just to maintain the same standard of living they enjoyed in 2021.
Crime News
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3 arrested after man robbed at gunpoint in Apple Valley
The Apple Valley Police Department says officers were dispatched to the 15100 block of Cedar Avenue for an armed robbery around 10:16 p.m.
Las Vegas police respond to active shooter at UNLV, say suspect is dead
Las Vegas police said there appear to be multiple victims in an active shooter situation on the University of Nevada, Las Vegas campus.
Kayvon Madison charged with 2nd-degree murder in Edina parking lot shooting
A Minneapolis man is charged with murder after he allegedly shot another man five times in an Edina parking lot following the birthday celebration of a mutual friend.
Bemidji boy arrested after threats led district to close area schools Wednesday, police say
A boy is in custody for allegedly making threats that led Bemidji Area Schools to make Wednesday an e-learning day.
Man using wheelchair found severely burned in Minneapolis encampment near Target Field, MPD says
A man who uses a wheelchair was found severely burned overnight Tuesday at a Minneapolis homeless encampment near Target Field.
Health News
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Wildfire smoke reversing air quality improvements, researchers say
Wildfires in the U.S. have caused a decline in air quality and an increase in deaths in parts of the U.S. – even though air quality had been improving, researchers say.
Gov. Evers vetoes Wisconsin bill banning gender-affirming care for kids
The veto was expected from Evers, who has vowed to strike down any proposals from the Republican-controlled Wisconsin Legislature that he deems harmful to LGBTQ+ youth.
Wisconsin judge reaffirms July ruling that state law permits consensual abortions
A Wisconsin judge has reaffirmed her ruling this summer that state law permits consensual medical abortions, handing abortion rights advocates a massive victory.
Minnesota-based Just The Pill providing women with mobile reproductive health care
Just The Pill is an organization that offers reproductive health services to women via telehealth and a mobile clinic that its directors think will be a model for the future of this health care.
Panera's caffeine-fueled lemonade cited in second death, suit says
Casual dining chain faces another wrongful death suit related to its Charged Lemonade after cardiac arrest of Florida man.
Entertainment News
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Daddy Yankee says he's retiring from music to focus on his faith
Daddy Yankee, the iconic reggaeton superstar, announced his plans to focus on his faith during his final musical performance Sunday in Puerto Rico.
Norman Lear, legendary TV producer, dies at age 101
Norman Lear created groundbreaking shows like "All in the Family," "Maude" and "The Jeffersons" that took on serious social issues with humor.
Taylor Swift is TIME's 2023 Person of the Year
"This is the proudest and happiest I've ever felt," Taylor Swift told TIME after being named the magazine's Person of the Year for 2023.
Limp Bizkit (and Corey Feldman) coming to Somerset Amphitheater next July
Limp Bizkit — under frontman Fred Durst — burned bright and fast during the waning years of the 1990s, most notoriously urging disgruntled crowds at the 1999 edition of Woodstock to "Break Stuff."
1958's "Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree" tops Billboard chart for first time
Brenda Lee's "Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree" outperformed familiar chart-topper Mariah Carey's "All I Want for Christmas Is You."
Sports News
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Minnesota Vikings will give QB Joshua Dobbs another start vs. Las Vegas Raiders
The Minnesota Vikings have announced who will be starting at quarterback for Sunday's game against the Las Vegas Raiders.
Matt Boldy's 3-point game powers Wild to a 5-2 win over the Flames
Matt Boldy scored twice and had an assist, leading the Minnesota Wild to a 5-2 win over the Calgary Flames.
Gophers Parker Fox, Isaiah Ihnen have been joined at the knee for past 2 years
Parker Fox and Isaiah Ihnen are back on the court this season for Minnesota after missing the last two years with consecutive ACL tears.
Elk River hockey star relishes senior year ahead of Minnesota Gophers career
Senior defender Carly Humphrey has played hockey since she was little.
Wisconsin Gov. Evers signs off on $500M plan to fund repairs and upgrades at Brewers stadium
Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers has signed a bill that spends half-a-billion in taxpayer dollars to help the Milwaukee Brewers cover stadium repairs over the next decade.
Talking Points
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Talking Points
Talking Points: Climate change is altering what farming zone Minnesota falls into (part 3)
Minnesota's warming winters are impacting what you can grow. That change is reflected in the latest U.S. Department of Agriculture's 2023 plant hardiness zone map. The impact is enormous on the state's $21 billion farm economy. Soybeans have now eclipsed corn, wheat and alfalfa as Minnesota's number one cash crop.
Talking Points: Climate change is altering what farming zone Minnesota falls into (part 2)
Minnesota's warming winters are impacting what you can grow. That change is reflected in the latest U.S. Department of Agriculture's 2023 plant hardiness zone map. Compared to 2012, there has been a significant change for much of Minnesota. But what does this mean for you? According to Julie Weisenhorn, an extension educator of horticulture at the University of Minnesota, this hardiness change opens the possibilities for metro gardeners.
Talking Points: Climate change is altering what farming zone Minnesota falls into (part 1)
Minnesota's warming winters are impacting what you can grow. That change is reflected in the latest U.S. Department of Agriculture's 2023 plant hardiness zone map. Compared to 2012, there has been a significant change for much of Minnesota. WCCO's Director of Meteorology and NEXT Weather Meteorologist Mike Augustyniak said these changes are happening faster in Northern areas like ours.
Why are there no loons on Minnesota's new state flag finalists?
Thousands of people have weighed in with comments on the flag options and many of those comments are critical that a loon is not featured in any of the flag designs.
Why are there no loons on Minnesota's new state flag finalists?
By now you likely know that there at six finalists for the new Minnesota flag. The State Emblems Redesign Commission will meet this Tuesday to discuss the finalists and to possibly make revisions to the top six designs. That is the subject of Esme Murphy's Talking Points.
Finding Minnesota
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This Nordic drive-thru in western Minnesota is a popular spot for lefse
We've all been through the coffee and fast-food drive-thrus, but they have nothing on this Evansville business. In this week's Finding Minnesota, John Lauritsen takes us to a drive-through that's as Nordic as it gets.
"The Mary Tyler Moore Show" continues to leave its mark on Minneapolis half a century later
In this week's Finding Minnesota, John Lauritsen shows us how an iconic show from the 70s put Minneapolis on the map, and why this year marks a special anniversary in the show's history.
Finding Minnesota: For 4 decades, Dennis Foy has painted commemorative Vikings game footballs
For nearly 40 years, Dennis Foy has been on the receiving end of footballs from the Vikings. They send him dozens each season along with emails about whose name they want on the game ball, and what they want it to say.
Jasper man's old-school windmill collection draws visitors from across the country
In 1999, Terry Rodman built a windmill for his wife, from scratch. Then, to balance things out, he put up a farm windmill — and people around Jasper, took notice.
Mother-daughter duo turns 98-year-old Mobil station into Airbnb
Peterson, Minnesota in Fillmore County is known for bluffs, bike trails and a nearly 100-year-old gas station that now serves a new purpose.
Good Question
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Why do stores keep extending their holiday sales? Good question.
Some shoppers enjoy taking advantage of the extended sales, while others say it's just holiday noise.
What does the appendix do and why are we fine without it?
Stephen Colbert is away from late-night TV following emergency surgery last week — the comedian's appendix burst. That made us wonder: What does the appendix do for our body? And why are we fine without it? Good Question. Jeff Wagner explains the mystery behind the tiny organ.
Is a dessert bar a cookie?
Heather Brown confers with some culinary experts to find the definitive answer!
Could November's minimal snow total impact December's output? Good Question.
The fluffy four-tenths of an inch that fell last Saturday kept the Twin Cities from notching a record of a snowless November.
Why do we eat turkey on Thanksgiving?
Thanksgiving gained popularity in the 1800s, eventually becoming a national holiday with cookbooks and newspapers touting recipes.
Latest Galleries
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Northern Lights in Minnesota: Dec. 1, 2023
For two nights in a row, the northern lights danced overhead in Minnesota and western Wisconsin, and WCCO viewers sent in their best photos.
Northern Lights over Minnesota and Wisconsin: Nov. 30, 2023
Some WCCO viewers shared marvelous photos of Thursday night's northern lights.
Items sold at "The Fashion of Prince" auction
Here's a look at some of the hot items on auction at "The Fashion of Prince."
Minnesota state flag and seal submissions: The good, the bad, and the loony
Minnesota leaders tasked the state's residents with helping to reimagine the state's flag and emblem. The citizenry has delivered, with designs running the gamut of reverent to just plain ridiculous.
Halloween NICU Babies
Lots of people will be out in costumes on Tuesday night, but these babies who are dressed up in the NICU might be the cutest of them all.
Weather
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Weather
NEXT Weather: Noon forecast from Dec. 6, 2023
A daily heat record may be broken Thursday.
What is Next Weather?
In Minnesota, weather can be all over the place. Here at WCCO, we want to give you what you need to prepare for what's happening next.
NEXT Weather: 9 a.m. forecast from Dec. 6, 2023
WCCO meteorologist Adam Del Rosso says a passing warm front will throw a few clouds our way along with gusts up to 30 mph, but we should stay dry.
NEXT Weather: 6:30 a.m. forecast from Dec. 6, 2023
Meteorologist Adam Del Rosso says Wednesday, and the rest of the week, won't feel very wintery.
NEXT Weather: Warm winds help highs climb 10-20 degrees above average
Warmth is the big story over the next few days, with highs in the mid-to-upper 40s Wednesday.
Latest Videos
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Latest Videos
Talking Points: Climate change is altering what farming zone Minnesota falls into (part 3)
Minnesota's warming winters are impacting what you can grow. That change is reflected in the latest U.S. Department of Agriculture's 2023 plant hardiness zone map. The impact is enormous on the state's $21 billion farm economy. Soybeans have now eclipsed corn, wheat and alfalfa as Minnesota's number one cash crop.
Talking Points: Climate change is altering what farming zone Minnesota falls into (part 2)
Minnesota's warming winters are impacting what you can grow. That change is reflected in the latest U.S. Department of Agriculture's 2023 plant hardiness zone map. Compared to 2012, there has been a significant change for much of Minnesota. But what does this mean for you? According to Julie Weisenhorn, an extension educator of horticulture at the University of Minnesota, this hardiness change opens the possibilities for metro gardeners.
Talking Points: Climate change is altering what farming zone Minnesota falls into (part 1)
Minnesota's warming winters are impacting what you can grow. That change is reflected in the latest U.S. Department of Agriculture's 2023 plant hardiness zone map. Compared to 2012, there has been a significant change for much of Minnesota. WCCO's Director of Meteorology and NEXT Weather Meteorologist Mike Augustyniak said these changes are happening faster in Northern areas like ours.
NEXT Weather: Noon forecast from Dec. 6, 2023
A daily heat record may be broken Thursday.
It’s time to start thinking about your taxes
Taxes aren't due until April, but CBS News business analyst Jill Schlesinger says it’s time to make smart money moves right now.