Minneapolis, MN – Residents across the Upper Mississippi Valley face an immediate threat of destructive thunderstorms and intense tornadoes starting this afternoon as a powerful weather system sweeps through the Great Lakes. The primary concerns involve very large hail and wind gusts capable of snapping power lines and damaging residential structures throughout the region.
According to the National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center, an “Enhanced” risk of severe weather covers much of central and southern Minnesota, including the Twin Cities, Rochester, and St. Cloud. Meteorologists warn that atmospheric conditions are ripe for the development of several strong tornadoes, specifically those rated EF2 or higher, which can cause significant structural damage.
By 4 p.m. Monday, the first wave of supercells is expected to track across the I-94 corridor, potentially creating whiteout conditions from heavy rain and reducing visibility to near zero for commuters.
The threat shifts southeast by early Tuesday morning, placing a bullseye on eastern Iowa, southern Wisconsin, and northern Illinois. Cities including Madison, Rockford, and Cedar Rapids are in the direct path of storms that could produce hail larger than two inches in diameter.
Local emergency management agencies urge residents to identify their lowest-floor shelter now and ensure mobile devices are charged to receive emergency chirps. Travel on I-80 and I-90 may become extremely hazardous through Tuesday night as the line of storms matures. Tornado watches and warnings are expected to be issued frequently as these cells move into the southern Plains by midweek. Severe weather alerts remain in effect through Tuesday.
