Minneapolis, MN – A Severe Thunderstorm Watch has been issued for portions of Minnesota and Wisconsin through 10 p.m. CDT Tuesday, as conditions become favorable for severe thunderstorms capable of producing damaging winds, large hail and isolated tornadoes.
According to the National Weather Service Twin Cities and the Storm Prediction Center, storms developing this evening may produce wind gusts up to 70 mph, hail up to 2 inches in diameter, and a couple of tornadoes.
The watch includes portions of central and western Wisconsin along with eastern and southeastern Minnesota, including areas near Rochester, River Falls, Eau Claire, La Crosse, Wausau, Appleton, Marinette and Iron Mountain.
The Storm Prediction Center estimates the watch area includes approximately:
- Population: 1.7 million people
- Schools: 709
- Hospitals: 50
Primary Threats
- Damaging wind gusts up to 70 mph
- Hail up to 2 inches in diameter
- A few tornadoes possible
- Frequent lightning and torrential rainfall
Residents in the watch area should closely monitor weather conditions throughout the evening and be prepared to move indoors if a Severe Thunderstorm Warning or Tornado Warning is issued. Secure loose outdoor objects, avoid unnecessary travel during storms and have multiple ways to receive weather alerts, especially if storms continue after sunset.
A Severe Thunderstorm Watch means conditions are favorable for severe storms to develop. Warnings may be issued later if dangerous storms form or move into the area.
