La Crosse, Wis. – Severe storms are pushing east across southeastern Minnesota and western Wisconsin this afternoon, with damaging winds and large hail likely between 2 and 7 p.m. Areas near Rochester, Winona, and La Crosse could see storms intensify through evening, bringing a risk of isolated tornadoes.
According to the National Weather Service in La Crosse, a line of thunderstorms is expanding south and east, with radar indicating heavier cells near Red Wing and Albert Lea as of 1:42 p.m. The primary threats include wind gusts up to 60 mph, hail up to 2 inches in diameter, and localized flooding on roadways.
By 4 p.m., storms are expected to impact Eau Claire, with areas like Tomah and Stevens Point seeing activity closer to 6 p.m. Residents are urged to stay indoors once storms approach and avoid driving through flooded intersections or low-lying areas.
This system marks one of the season’s more widespread severe threats across the region. Outdoor plans should be reconsidered as conditions can change rapidly. Additional warnings or advisories may be issued into the evening as the storm line moves east.
