Eau Claire, Wisconsin – Scattered severe storms could strike areas north of Interstate 94 late Friday afternoon and continue into the night, bringing large hail and damaging winds to parts of western and central Wisconsin.
According to the National Weather Service in La Crosse, the greatest risk lies in areas like Eau Claire, St. Croix Falls, and Medford, which are under a level 2 out of 5 (“slight risk”) for severe weather. The chance of storms developing sits between 30% and 40%, and any that do form could intensify quickly.
Counties in the level 2 zone—including Dunn, Chippewa, Clark, and Taylor—should stay alert for storms after 3 p.m. Friday. Primary threats include hail over 1 inch in diameter and wind gusts over 60 mph. Areas farther south, including La Crosse, Prairie du Chien, and Platteville, remain under a lower level 1 risk but could still see isolated storms.
Residents with outdoor plans Friday evening should stay weather-aware, keep phones charged, and have multiple ways to receive warnings. If storms become severe, seek shelter indoors immediately.
Storm chances taper off overnight, but additional alerts may be issued.
