Milwaukee, Wis. – Southern Wisconsin residents should prepare for potentially dangerous overnight thunderstorms capable of producing destructive wind gusts, large hail and torrential rainfall. While the exact timing remains uncertain, the strongest storms could arrive late tonight and continue into the early morning hours Monday, increasing the risk for hazardous travel while many people are asleep.
According to the National Weather Service in Milwaukee/Sullivan, dry weather is expected through this evening before thunderstorms develop and move south across the state. Forecasters are monitoring two possible scenarios: a line of storms arriving between 11 p.m. and 3 a.m., followed by additional showers through daybreak, or a delayed arrival after 3 a.m. Regardless of timing, severe weather remains possible.
The Storm Prediction Center places much of southern Wisconsin, including areas near Madison, Beaver Dam and Wisconsin Dells, under a Level 3 of 5 Enhanced Risk for severe thunderstorms. Communities farther south and east, including Milwaukee, Janesville, Kenosha and Racine, are under a Level 2 of 5 Slight Risk.
The primary threat will be damaging straight-line wind gusts exceeding 70 mph, although large hail, torrential rainfall and an isolated tornado cannot be ruled out. As storms continue into Monday morning, the focus may shift toward heavy rainfall, which could produce localized flooding on roads and in poor drainage areas.
Residents should have multiple ways to receive weather warnings overnight, including wireless emergency alerts, NOAA Weather Radio, local television and trusted weather apps. Charge electronic devices before bed, secure loose outdoor items, and be prepared to move to an interior room on the lowest floor if a Severe Thunderstorm or Tornado Warning is issued.
Additional watches and warnings may be issued overnight as confidence in the timing and track of the strongest storms increases.
