La Crosse, Wis. – Severe thunderstorms are expected to sweep across western and southwestern Wisconsin this evening, bringing the threat of damaging winds up to 60 mph, large hail, and heavy rain. A few storms could also produce a brief tornado. The highest risk will be from 4 p.m. until 11 p.m., when storms are most likely to maintain strength before weakening overnight.
According to the National Weather Service in La Crosse, scattered storms will develop this afternoon and move east at 40–60% coverage, with some becoming severe. Areas at highest risk include La Crosse, Prairie du Chien, and Richland Center, along with parts of southeast Minnesota and northeast Iowa. Motorists should be prepared for sudden visibility drops and possible debris on roads during peak storm activity.
Residents are urged to move indoors when thunder is heard and to secure outdoor items that could become projectiles in strong winds. Multiple ways to receive warnings—such as NOAA weather radios, smartphone alerts, or local media—are recommended.
Severe thunderstorm risks are expected to diminish by midnight, but additional watches or warnings may be issued if storms redevelop.
