Severe Thunderstorm Development Beginning Across the Upper Midwest, Severe Weather Likely Tonight

Severe Storms Will Organize & Move East Southeast Into Central States

07/31/24 2:13pm ET

Midwest Regional Radar 07/31/24 2:12PM ETPhoto byNWS

Good afternoon everyone. Severe weather is starting to take shape as clusters of thunderstorms begin to develop and head to their respective destinations. Right now we have two areas of developing storms. The first cluster is an area of heavy showers and storms in central Nebraska. The other is coming out of North & South Dakota and into Minnesota.

As of now, our cluster in Nebraska poses no immediate threat aside from some torrential rain, frequent lightning, and gusty winds. However, as the afternoon wears on, we are expecting this line to grow in size, strength, and scope; and will most likely reach severe limits as it nears the Nebraska/Iowa border.

Our current severe weather threat is located in the Upper Midwest in parts of the Dakotas and Minnesota. These storms alsready have a history of damaging winds in excess of 55mph, large hail, and frequent lightning. For this reason, the National Weather Service has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Watch until 7pm in parts of the Dakotas and Minnesota, as far east as the St. Cloud area.

As the afternoon gives way to evening, all of these storms from the Upper Midwest into the Midwest and Central States, will be capable of damaging winds, torrential rain, frequent lightning, very large hail, and isolated strong tornadoes. Expect severe thunderstorm watches, and possibly tornado watches, to be issued/expanded as our thunderstorms move, strengthen, and grow in size.

Stay tuned for the latest watches and warnings in your area. Be prepared to take action in order to save property and life.

National Weather Service - Severe Thunderstorm Watch - St Cloud, MN