Severe Weather Alert: Thunderstorms and Heavy Rain Expected in Minnesota and Wisconsin

Photo byNational Weather Service

Hazardous Weather Outlook Issued for Minnesota and Wisconsin

The National Weather Service has issued a Hazardous Weather Outlook for parts of central and southern Minnesota, west-central Wisconsin, and eastern North Dakota. Residents in these areas should prepare for potential severe weather, including thunderstorms, heavy rainfall, and possible tornadoes over the next few days.

Weather Conditions and Potential Impacts

Tonight:

• Thunderstorms: A slight chance of thunderstorms capable of large hail exists across southern Minnesota overnight.

Monday through Saturday:

• Thunderstorms and Heavy Rainfall:
• • Monday: Thunderstorms with locally heavy rainfall expected, with 2-3 inches likely across east-central Minnesota and western Wisconsin through Tuesday morning.
  • Severe Weather Risk: Southern Minnesota could experience severe thunderstorms Monday afternoon and evening, with the potential for a few tornadoes, large hail, and damaging winds.

Areas Under Watch

The Hazardous Weather Outlook covers the following regions:

• Central and Southern Minnesota: Douglas, Todd, Morrison, Mille Lacs, Kanabec, Stevens, Pope, Stearns, Benton, Sherburne, Isanti, Chisago, Lac Qui Parle, Swift, Chippewa, Kandiyohi, Meeker, Wright, Hennepin, Anoka, Ramsey, Washington, Yellow Medicine, Renville, McLeod, Sibley, Carver, Scott, Dakota, Redwood, Brown, Nicollet, Le Sueur, Rice, Goodhue, Watonwan, Blue Earth, Waseca, Steele, Martin, Faribault, and Freeborn.
• West-Central Wisconsin: Polk, Barron, Rusk, St. Croix, Pierce, Dunn, Pepin, Eau Claire.
• Eastern North Dakota and West-Central Minnesota: Clay, Becker, Wilkin, Otter Tail, Wadena, Grant, Barnes, Cass, Ransom, Sargent, Richland.

Precautionary Actions

Residents should take the following precautions:

• Monitor Weather Updates: Stay informed with the latest weather forecasts and updates from the National Weather Service.
• Prepare for Severe Weather: Secure loose objects, check emergency supplies, and have a plan in place in case of severe weather.
• Avoid Hazardous Areas: Be cautious of downed power lines, fallen trees, and flooding roads.

Spotter Information

SKYWARN spotter activation may be needed Monday evening. Spotters are encouraged to relay any information about observed severe weather to the National Weather Service.

Additional Information for North-Central and Northeast Wisconsin

The National Weather Service in Green Bay, WI, has also issued a Hazardous Weather Outlook for north-central and northeast Wisconsin.

Tonight:

• Thunderstorms: A few thunderstorms are possible, though severe storms are not expected.

Monday through Sunday:

• Thunderstorms and Heavy Rainfall:
• • Monday and Monday Night: Heavy rainfall may cause localized flash flooding, urban street flooding, and rises in water levels in rivers, creeks, and ditches.

Spotter activation will not be needed tonight.

Stay alert and prepared as this hazardous weather system moves through the region. By taking these precautions, you can help ensure your safety and the safety of those around you.