An original HastingsNow.com photo of the Hastings Bridge anchors this AI-assisted illustration of three October 28th moments. The historical scenes are artistic interpretations.
Wednesday in Hastings brings an almost summerlike afternoon, followed by a reminder that autumn weather can change quickly. Temperatures may reach the low 70s, but showers and thunderstorms become more likely late in the day, so earlier outdoor plans have the advantage.
Today’s Weather in Hastings
At a glance
High / Low: Near 71°F Wednesday; around 44°F Wednesday night.
Rain: 60% chance Wednesday, increasing late in the afternoon; 90% chance Wednesday night.
Storm timing: Showers and thunderstorms become more likely after 4–5 p.m., with the best rain chances Wednesday evening.
Wind: South at 10–15 mph during the day, shifting toward the northwest overnight.
Storm outlook: The National Weather Service says some afternoon or evening thunderstorms could become strong to severe. This is an outlook, not a warning.
Wednesday morning should begin mostly cloudy, with temperatures climbing steadily toward a much milder afternoon. The National Weather Service forecasts cloudy skies through midmorning, followed by gradual clearing. A slight chance of showers remains, but the more significant rain opportunity comes later.
By afternoon, Hastings could reach 71°F, with a south breeze around 10–15 mph. There may be an opportunity to enjoy some brighter skies before the weather changes. Showers and thunderstorms become possible late in the afternoon, with showers likely after approximately 5 p.m.
Wednesday evening deserves closer attention. The NWS forecasts a 90% precipitation chance overnight, with showers and thunderstorms mainly before 10 p.m. Rain chances decrease later in the evening, while temperatures eventually fall toward 44°F as winds shift toward the northwest.
The National Weather Service also notes that some thunderstorms could become strong to severe Wednesday afternoon or evening, although that outcome remains uncertain. For Hastings families, commuters and anyone making evening plans, the changing forecast is worth watching.
What to wear or plan
Morning: Comfortable fall layers for a cloudy start.
Afternoon: A lighter jacket may be sufficient as temperatures climb into the upper 60s and low 70s.
Outdoor plans: Consider earlier walks, yardwork or errands before the late-day rain chances increase.
Evening: Have rain protection available and be prepared to adjust outdoor activities if thunderstorms develop.
Weather Joke of the Day
Why did Wednesday’s rain show up late to downtown Hastings? It wanted to avoid bridge traffic—but forgot everyone else had the same idea.
Weather + On This Date by HastingsNow.com
On This Date: A Little Time Capsule
1992 — Minnesota Completes the Road to Lake Superior
On October 28, 1992, leaders in Duluth, Minnesota, celebrated the opening of the Leif Erickson Tunnel and the final link of Interstate 35 through the city. The milestone completed I-35's route from Lake Superior to Laredo, Texas, following years of community involvement in designing the Duluth waterfront section. It's a reminder that thoughtful transportation projects can connect communities while respecting the places people love.
Source: Federal Highway Administration — October, FHWA By Day
1886 — Lady Liberty Welcomes the World
On October 28, 1886, President Grover Cleveland formally accepted the Statue of Liberty, a gift of friendship from France, during its dedication in New York Harbor. Rain and fog didn't stop the celebration, which included New York City's first ticker-tape parade. In a striking detail, members of the New York State Woman Suffrage Association watched from a chartered boat because unaccompanied women could not obtain tickets to the ceremony.
Source: National Park Service — Liberty Island Chronology
1965 — The Gateway Arch Reaches Its Peak
On October 28, 1965, workers installed the final stainless-steel section of the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, completing the magnificent 630-foot monument beside the Mississippi River. Designed by architect Eero Saarinen, its soaring curve became an enduring symbol of the Gateway to the West. For those of us who enjoy the Mississippi from Hastings, it's another remarkable example of how engineering, imagination and a river can help define a city.
Source: National Park Service — The Gateway Arch Celebrates 50th Year of Completion
How we know
Weather sources
National Weather Service — Hastings, Minnesota, Point Forecast — Accessed October 27, 2026, at approximately 4:20 p.m. CT.
National Weather Service — Dakota County Zone Forecast — Accessed October 27, 2026, at approximately 4:20 p.m. CT.
National Weather Service Twin Cities — Area Forecast Discussion — Accessed October 27, 2026, at approximately 4:20 p.m. CT.
National Weather Service Twin Cities — Hazardous Weather Outlook — Accessed October 27, 2026, at approximately 4:20 p.m. CT.
History sources
Federal Highway Administration — October, FHWA By Day — Accessed October 27, 2026, at approximately 4:20 p.m. CT.
National Park Service — Liberty Island Chronology — Accessed October 27, 2026, at approximately 4:20 p.m. CT.
National Park Service — The Gateway Arch Celebrates 50th Year of Completion — Accessed October 27, 2026, at approximately 4:20 p.m. CT.
Weather can change quickly, especially with summer storms, so readers should check official alerts and radar before heading out.
Keep Wednesday's late-afternoon and evening plans flexible as showers and thunderstorms develop.
