Milwaukee, Wis. – Strong thunderstorms will push into southern Wisconsin Friday afternoon, bringing 45 mph wind gusts and penny-size hail that could disrupt evening travel and outdoor plans from Madison to Milwaukee.
According to the National Weather Service in Milwaukee, a northeast-to-southwest moving cold front will sweep through the state between 2 and 9 p.m. CDT Friday. Storms are expected to peak in strength between 4 and 8 p.m., with the most severe impacts likely east of the Wisconsin River and into the Milwaukee metro area.
Storm arrival times vary by region: Wausau and Fond du Lac could see activity by 4 p.m., with Janesville and Lake Geneva seeing storms by 6 p.m. Areas near Prairie du Chien and Monroe may not see the front pass until around 8 p.m. The front could trigger brief but strong cells capable of producing damaging wind and small hail. Wildfire smoke aloft could inhibit some storm development, especially in western counties.
Drivers are urged to avoid travel during peak hours and secure outdoor objects. Those in mobile homes or temporary structures should monitor alerts closely and prepare for sudden gusts.
Thunderstorms are expected to diminish by 9 p.m., but additional watches may be issued if instability persists into Friday night.
