Minneapolis, Minnesota – More than 4 million residents across eastern Minnesota and western Wisconsin are under a tornado watch until 9 p.m. Monday, with damaging winds, large hail, and isolated tornadoes possible through the evening.
According to the National Weather Service Twin Cities office, storms are currently moving through the metro area but have not yet shown signs of rotation. However, redevelopment is likely along a line of storms forming later this afternoon that could produce a couple of tornadoes, particularly in central and east-central Minnesota.
Counties under the watch include Hennepin, Ramsey, Dakota, Anoka, and Washington, with cities like St. Cloud, Cambridge, Forest Lake, and Hutchinson also in the threat zone. In western Wisconsin, the watch includes Pierce, Polk, Burnett, and St. Croix counties. Scattered hail up to tennis ball size and wind gusts nearing 70 mph are expected to accompany the strongest cells.
Residents are urged to monitor weather alerts, charge mobile devices, and review shelter plans in case warnings are issued. Non-essential travel should be avoided as storms intensify during the evening commute.
The tornado watch remains in effect through 9 p.m., with additional warnings possible if storms continue to develop overnight.
