Rochester, Minn. – Residents across southern Minnesota, western Wisconsin, and northern Iowa are under a tornado watch until 10 p.m. Wednesday as powerful thunderstorms sweep through the region, bringing the threat of damaging winds, large hail, and potential tornadoes.
According to the National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center, Tornado Watch 461 covers 17 counties in Minnesota, including Olmsted, Winona, Blue Earth, and Mower, and extends into 9 counties in Wisconsin—among them La Crosse, Vernon, and Jackson—as well as 10 counties in Iowa, including Cerro Gordo, Winneshiek, and Worth.
In Minnesota, storms are expected to intensify by late afternoon, with rotation already being monitored along a warm front stretching from Martin County through Rice County. Emergency management in Rochester and surrounding areas advises residents to have weather radios on and phones charged in case of power outages.
In Wisconsin, La Crosse and Monroe County officials are monitoring localized flooding concerns as saturated ground could increase risk of downed trees. In Iowa, communities like Mason City and Decorah should prepare for rapid storm development between 5 p.m. and 8 p.m.
Travel is discouraged during warning periods, especially on rural highways with limited shelter access. Residents are urged to seek shelter immediately if a warning is issued.
Tornado Watch 461 remains in effect until 10 p.m., and additional warnings could be issued as storms evolve.
