Minneapolis, MN – Residents across the Upper Midwest should prepare for a dangerous round of severe weather this afternoon and evening, as powerful thunderstorms are expected to develop, bringing the potential for very large hail and tornadoes.
According to the NOAA Storm Prediction Center, a significant severe weather event is likely across parts of the northern and central Plains into the Upper Mississippi Valley. The primary threats from these storms are severe and damaging winds, isolated large hail of two inches or more in diameter, and a few tornadoes, which may occur with supercell development. The greatest risk area includes eastern South Dakota, southern Minnesota, northern Iowa, and western Wisconsin.
Cities in the path of the most organized storm clusters include Minneapolis, St. Paul, Sioux Falls, and Rochester. The main timeframe for this activity will be Monday afternoon and evening, creating a hazardous commute and threatening outdoor activities. Officials urge residents to have multiple ways to receive weather alerts and to be prepared to take shelter quickly if a warning is issued for their area.
Safety actions are critical as these storms approach. Continue to monitor local weather updates throughout the day. Residents should secure loose objects outdoors, have a severe weather plan in place, and be ready to act if watches and warnings are issued. The threat is expected to continue into the evening hours.
