La Crosse, Wisconsin – Drivers and residents north of Interstate 90 have a narrow window to prepare as severe thunderstorms are expected to rapidly intensify by early Monday evening, bringing large hail and damaging wind into western Wisconsin.
According to the National Weather Service in La Crosse, a Level 3 out of 5 severe weather risk is in place from 4 p.m. through midnight Monday, with storms المتوقع to develop near the I-90 corridor before pushing northeast across cities like Eau Claire, Black River Falls, and Medford. Forecasters say hail will be the primary hazard, with stones potentially reaching 1 inch in diameter, alongside wind gusts capable of downing trees and power lines.
Communities including La Crosse, Winona, and Prairie du Chien sit just south of the highest risk zone but could still see strong storms during the evening commute. Travel along I-90, Highway 53, and rural county roads may become hazardous quickly as visibility drops and debris increases.
Emergency managers urge residents to secure outdoor items, charge devices, and identify a safe indoor shelter location. Those with evening plans should closely monitor alerts and be ready to move indoors within minutes.
Storm chances taper after midnight, but additional advisories could be issued if storms redevelop or intensify.
