Minneapolis, Minnesota – Storms capable of producing 70 mph wind gusts and hail up to 2 inches are expected to develop across Minnesota and western Wisconsin through the late afternoon commute Friday, putting nearly 2 million residents at risk.
According to the National Weather Service Twin Cities office, a Severe Thunderstorm Watch remains in effect until 5 p.m. CDT for much of central and eastern Minnesota, including the Twin Cities metro, and stretching into western Wisconsin cities like Eau Claire and Hudson. The watch includes a population of roughly 1.96 million people, along with more than 900 schools and dozens of hospitals.
The primary threats include scattered large hail, isolated damaging wind gusts, and frequent lightning. Storms are expected to develop and intensify through the afternoon, with the highest impacts likely during peak travel hours. Areas along Interstate 94 from Minneapolis to Eau Claire and Highway 52 near Rochester could see sudden downpours reducing visibility below one mile.
Cities including St. Paul, Minneapolis, Rochester, and Duluth sit within the watch zone, with conditions favorable for quick storm development. In western Wisconsin, communities like Rice Lake, Wausau, and Stevens Point may also experience strong cells moving east.
Residents should secure outdoor objects, charge mobile devices, and have multiple ways to receive warnings. Drivers are urged to avoid flooded roadways and be prepared for sudden wind gusts that could impact high-profile vehicles.
Storm activity is expected to weaken after 5 p.m., but additional alerts could be issued if conditions intensify later this evening.
