Madison, Wis. – Gusty winds and scattered thunderstorms could rattle southern Wisconsin Friday afternoon, with the highest risk for hail and damaging wind gusts between 1 and 8 p.m., especially east of I-39.
According to the National Weather Service in Milwaukee, storms are expected to develop between 1 and 3 p.m. in southwestern areas such as Platteville and Monroe, before tracking east-northeast across Madison, Waukesha, and Milwaukee through early evening. Some isolated cells could produce winds over 40 mph and hail, particularly between 3 and 8 p.m.
Winds outside of storms will also remain a hazard. Sustained southwest gusts from 35 to 40 mph are forecast from noon through 6 p.m. in cities like Janesville, Dodgeville, and Port Washington. Drivers on exposed roads like I-90/94 and U.S. 151 should expect crosswinds and blowing debris.
Residents are urged to secure loose outdoor items and prepare for rapidly changing weather conditions. Move indoors if a storm approaches your area, and monitor local alerts—especially in zones with higher instability near Lake Michigan.
Storms will taper off between 5 and 9 p.m., but weather statements may be updated throughout the day if conditions worsen.
