Weather
Minnesota-Wisconsin Weather Alert Wednesday: Hail, 60 MPH Winds, Tornado Risk Oct 28
Duluth, MN – An unusual late October severe weather threat is developing across portions of northwest Wisconsin and east central Minnesota Wednesday, October 28, with thunderstorms potentially produci
By Natalie Brooks · 2026-10-28T10:33:41.550Z
Duluth, MN – An unusual late October severe weather threat is developing across portions of northwest Wisconsin and east central Minnesota Wednesday, October 28, with thunderstorms potentially producing large hail, damaging wind gusts and even an isolated tornado.
According to the National Weather Service in Duluth, a few strong to severe thunderstorms could develop Wednesday afternoon into early evening, with the greatest concern focused on parts of northwest Wisconsin and east central Minnesota.
Forecasters have identified a Level 2 out of 5 severe thunderstorm risk for portions of the region, indicating that a few severe storms are possible.
Large hail is the primary threat , with some storms potentially producing hailstones up to half dollar size.
Damaging wind gusts reaching 40 to 60 mph are also possible, creating hazards for motorists, outdoor activities and unsecured property.
The National Weather Service additionally warns that a tornado cannot be ruled out, particularly across northwest Wisconsin.
However, the agency estimates the tornado probability at less than 5%, indicating a relatively low but nonzero risk.
Communities near Hayward, Rice Lake, St. Croix Falls and surrounding areas are among those that could experience stronger thunderstorms.
Portions of east central Minnesota, including areas near St. Cloud and Hinckley, are also included in the severe weather outlook.
The threat remains conditional, meaning storm development will depend heavily on atmospheric conditions Wednesday afternoon.
Forecasters say that if clouds fail to clear, thunderstorms may struggle to intensify, potentially reducing the severe weather threat.
However, sufficient afternoon clearing could allow storms to strengthen rapidly.
Residents across affected communities should review their severe weather safety plans and ensure they have multiple ways to receive warnings.
Anyone outdoors Wednesday afternoon or evening should remain alert for changing conditions, especially if thunderstorms begin developing nearby.
The National Weather Service encourages residents to identify a safe shelter location before storms arrive.
Updated watches, warnings and forecasts are available through the National Weather Service Duluth office.