Minneapolis, MN – Residents across the Upper Midwest should prepare for dangerous storms Monday afternoon as a powerful system threatens to bring large hail, strong tornadoes, and damaging winds to the region. The greatest risk stretches from southern Minnesota through northern Iowa into western Wisconsin, including cities like Minneapolis, Des Moines, and Madison.
According to the NOAA Storm Prediction Center, thunderstorms are expected to develop by early afternoon Monday and continue through late evening. Areas within the highest threat zone could see tornadoes capable of significant damage, hail up to two inches in diameter, and wind gusts exceeding 70 mph.
Communities in and around Rochester, Waterloo, and Sioux Falls are also under a heightened risk. Travel disruptions, power outages, and property damage are possible as storms move rapidly across state lines. Motorists are urged to avoid travel during peak storm hours, and residents should secure outdoor items and ensure mobile devices are fully charged in case of outages.
This outbreak marks one of the most significant severe weather threats so far this spring for the Upper Mississippi Valley. Warnings and additional alerts could be issued quickly Monday, and emergency officials urge people to have multiple ways to receive weather updates.
