La Crosse, Wis. – Severe thunderstorms could slam into Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Iowa Monday night, bringing a dangerous mix of damaging winds, large hail, and tornadoes during the late evening and overnight hours.
According to the National Weather Service in La Crosse, showers and storms will lift northeast early Monday morning, with a 5% chance of severe weather between 3 a.m. and 10 a.m. Confidence is low for strong storms in the afternoon, but by Monday night, conditions will sharply deteriorate. The highest risk (Level 4 out of 5) spans across La Crosse, Rochester, Mason City, and Des Moines, with widespread severe storms likely between 7 p.m. Monday and 4 a.m. Tuesday.
In La Crosse, Eau Claire, and Madison, residents should prepare for strong gusts capable of downing trees and power lines. Travel on highways like I-90, I-35, and U.S. 52 may become hazardous overnight. The National Weather Service urges everyone to review severe weather safety plans, ensure devices are fully charged, and have multiple ways to receive warnings—especially since storms will strike after dark.
Large hail and isolated tornadoes will be possible as the storm line races eastward. Conditions will gradually improve Tuesday morning, but additional watches or warnings could be issued overnight as the situation evolves.
