July 8, 2020
Severe weather warnings issued for much of Minnesota. It could be a bumpy ride tonight as the powerful winds that caused damages in western Minnesota this morning continues moving east. The watch zone includes a huge swath of the state: The northern Twin Cities area, Ortonville, Alexandria, St. Cloud, Brainerd, Lake Mille Lacs, the Iron Range, Duluth and the North Shore. A tornado warning has also been issued for south central Otter Tail and northeastern Grant counties until 6 p.m. tonight. So batten down the hatches, stay alert to more warnings in your area and stay tuned to our weather blog for live updates. The latest on COVID-19 in Minnesota: Health officials address reported 'COVID parties.' Their response to these gatherings allegedly aimed at spreading the virus: Just don't. “This is a really, really bad idea,” Kris Ehresmann, the state’s infectious disease director, told reporters, noting that even young people face the risk of developing significant health complications and spreading it to vulnerable family members. Younger people have become a new focus point for state officials as they are starting to trace outbreaks to bars and other indoor social spaces. Some COVID-19 tests come with a bill. Here’s how to avoid one. For weeks Minnesotans have been hearing from state officials that if they feel sick or think they may have been exposed to COVID-19, they should get tested and that it will be free. But it hasn't always worked out that way. As guidance around who can get tested changes, some people are being billed for their tests — or being told they will be billed, which has the potential to put a chilling effect on the state’s efforts. Here's what you need to know, and how to dispute your bill.
~Sara Porter, MPR News | 
