3 Things To Know
• Severe storms are possible this afternoon and evening. Scattered thunderstorms are expected to develop across southern Wisconsin, with some becoming severe through late evening.
• Large hail and damaging winds are the primary threats. The strongest storms could produce hail up to 2 inches in diameter and wind gusts as high as 70 mph.
• A tornado or two cannot be ruled out. While hail and wind are the main concerns, conditions may support an isolated tornado. Stay weather aware and have multiple ways to receive warnings.
MILWAUKEE, Wis. — The Storm Prediction Center has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Watch for much of Wisconsin through 10 p.m. Wednesday as conditions become favorable for strong to severe thunderstorms this afternoon and evening.
The watch includes much of southern and eastern Wisconsin and covers a large portion of the Upper Midwest, including parts of Iowa, Illinois and Minnesota.
Forecasters expect scattered thunderstorms to develop through the afternoon and evening, with some storms capable of becoming severe.
Main Threats
The primary hazards include:
- Large hail up to 2 inches in diameter
- Damaging wind gusts up to 70 mph
- An isolated tornado or two
The greatest threat will come from storms that can tap into increasing heat and humidity during the afternoon. While not every community will experience severe weather, any storm that develops could quickly become dangerous.
What Is a Severe Thunderstorm Watch?
A Severe Thunderstorm Watch means atmospheric conditions are favorable for severe thunderstorms to develop. It does not mean severe weather is occurring everywhere in the watch area.
Residents should:
- Stay weather aware throughout the afternoon and evening
- Have multiple ways to receive warnings
- Be prepared to move indoors quickly if storms approach
- Secure loose outdoor objects that could be blown around by strong winds
Timing
The watch remains in effect until 10 p.m. CDT Wednesday.
Wisconsin Weather Now will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates if warnings are issued or storm threats increase.
This is a fairly classic summer severe weather setup for Wisconsin. Large hail and damaging winds appear to be the primary concerns, but forecasters are also noting the potential for an isolated tornado. Make sure your weather alerts are enabled and keep an eye on the sky through this evening, especially if you have outdoor plans.
