La Crosse, Wis. – Anyone traveling or spending time outdoors along and south of Interstate 90 should keep an eye on the sky this afternoon as atmospheric conditions remain favorable for brief funnel clouds. While most of these funnels never reach the ground, officials say any funnel that does touch down becomes a tornado capable of causing property damage and injuries.
According to the National Weather Service in La Crosse, conditions support the development of short-lived funnel clouds through late Thursday afternoon, primarily across southwest Wisconsin and adjacent portions of southeast Minnesota and northeast Iowa. The area of greatest concern stretches south of I-90 and includes communities near La Crosse, Viroqua, Wisconsin Dells, Platteville, Preston, Charles City and Oelwein.
The Weather Service emphasized that these funnel clouds rarely pose a threat to life or property because they typically remain aloft. However, residents should immediately seek shelter if a funnel cloud extends to the ground or if a tornado warning is issued. Spotters and the public are encouraged to report funnel cloud sightings to the National Weather Service to help forecasters monitor changing conditions.
If you hear thunder, notice rotation beneath developing clouds or see a funnel descending, move indoors and stay away from windows. Additional weather statements could be issued if conditions change through the afternoon.
