Weather Story

NOW: Thunderstorms Developing

Severe Storm Potential This Evening & Tonight

Sunday Severe Storm Potential

Periods of Heavy Rain Sunday and Monday

Plan Ahead Now for Severe Weather Potential!

Thunderstorms are expected to continue developing over the next hour or two along and south of I 90 in southern Minnesota and northern Iowa. These storms may become severe with large hail and damaging winds as the primary hazards.

A line of storms is expected to form later this afternoon into the early evening, progressing east-southeast through the local area into tonight. Main severe threat will be large hail initially, transitioning to damaging winds of 70+ mph where the line progresses later this evening. While highest probability (15-45%) for severe weather extends locally from northeast Iowa into southwest Wisconsin, strong to severe storms remain possible elsewhere across the area with large hail as the secondary hazard. Plan ahead of nighttime storms by ensuring means of receiving warnings will awaken you.

Scattered severe storms possible across the local area on Sunday with the potential for all types of severe weather hazards including damaging winds, tornadoes, large hail and heavy rain. Current local confidence limited by ongoing morning storms affecting subsequent severe storm development through the afternoon and evening. It will be important to continue monitoring upcoming forecasts and plan ahead for potential severe weather this weekend.

Widespread rainfall will accompany the storms Sunday and Monday (May 17 & 18) with the potential for periods of heavy rain. Amounts around 1 inch a favored across the region, with those north and west of La Crosse, WI possibly receiving upwards of 2 inches. Exact rainfall amounts and locations may change/shift over the coming days so keep an eye on the forecast!

Given the persistent severe storm potential, it remains important to ensure severe weather safety plans are in place ahead of time.