La Crosse, Wisconsin – Severe thunderstorms are expected to roll across southwest Wisconsin Monday night, bringing the threat of large hail, damaging winds, and possible tornadoes through early Tuesday morning.
According to the National Weather Service in La Crosse, scattered storms could begin as early as Sunday night, with the greatest severe weather threat arriving between 7 p.m. Monday and 4 a.m. Tuesday. Forecasters warn some storms could produce hail up to 1 inch in diameter, with high winds adding to the danger across La Crosse, Monroe, Vernon, and Crawford counties.
Communities including La Crosse, Sparta, and Viroqua should prepare for rapid changes in weather conditions. Travel on major routes like I-90 and Highway 14 could become hazardous, especially overnight. Residents are urged to secure outdoor items, charge devices ahead of time, and have multiple ways to receive weather alerts.
Spotters may be needed Monday night to report hail, wind damage, and possible tornado activity. Emergency management teams have scheduled coordination meetings this afternoon to ensure rapid response.
This is the first major severe weather outbreak of the season for the region. Warnings and advisories may extend into early Tuesday, with calmer, sunnier weather expected by late afternoon.