Milwaukee, Wisconsin – Anyone with evening plans across southern Wisconsin should closely monitor the weather, as potentially dangerous thunderstorms are expected to develop between 5 p.m. and 11 p.m. Monday, bringing the risk of destructive winds, giant hail and strong tornadoes.
According to the National Weather Service in Milwaukee/Sullivan, the atmosphere will recover after midday rainfall, allowing thunderstorms to rapidly intensify late this afternoon. Storms are expected to develop over central Wisconsin before tracking southeast across southern Wisconsin during the evening, with the greatest severe weather threat occurring between 5 p.m. and 11 p.m.
The strongest storms could produce wind gusts exceeding 70 mph, hail larger than golf balls, and strong tornadoes rated EF-2 or higher. Forecasters indicate all severe weather hazards are possible, with the highest-end threats focused across much of southern Wisconsin, including Madison, Janesville, Beaver Dam, West Bend, Waukesha, Milwaukee, Racine, Kenosha and surrounding communities.
Rain moving through southern Wisconsin around midday should temporarily limit storm development, but isolated thunderstorms remain possible during the afternoon before widespread severe storms organize during the evening. Storms are expected to move from northwest to southeast, potentially affecting the evening commute and outdoor events.
Residents should have multiple ways to receive weather warnings, including Wireless Emergency Alerts and NOAA Weather Radio. Review your tornado safety plan now, identify a sturdy shelter away from windows, and be prepared to move indoors immediately if warnings are issued. Secure loose outdoor items before storms arrive and avoid traveling during severe weather if possible.
The severe weather threat is expected to diminish after 11 p.m., though additional warnings may be issued quickly as storms develop this afternoon and evening.
