La Crosse, Wisconsin – Residents across southeastern Minnesota, northeastern Iowa, and western Wisconsin should brace for severe thunderstorms between 2 and 8 p.m. Thursday, with damaging winds and large hail the primary threats.
According to the National Weather Service in La Crosse, confidence is highest (30–45%) along and east of the Mississippi River for numerous severe storms. A line of storms will move northeast through the region Thursday afternoon, gaining strength into the evening. Winds could exceed 40 mph, and isolated tornadoes remain possible, though the threat is less certain.
Cities including Rochester, La Crosse, Eau Claire, and Madison fall within the zone of elevated concern. The storms could impact travel on major corridors such as I-90 and U.S. 53, particularly during the evening commute. Power outages, tree damage, and localized flooding are also possible.
Residents are urged to stay weather aware, review indoor shelter plans, and ensure they have multiple ways to receive warnings. With uncertainty around storm timing and intensity, quick changes in the track could shift the highest risk east or west.
Warnings remain possible through Thursday night, with more updates expected as storm models evolve.
