Weather Story

Severe Weather Risk Wednesday Afternoon

Severe Storms Possible for Some on Thu

Increasing Heat and Humidity thru Wed

Severe Weather Planning Timeline

Severe storms are expected across the region Wednesday afternoon and evening. While storms are most likely to form along and slightly ahead of an advancing cold front marching out of central MN in the afternoon, there is a low chance (20-30%) for storms to form further ahead of this front early in the afternoon. Regardless of where they form, storms will quickly become severe with large hail (2+") likely with more isolated storms. As the storms merge into a line later in the afternoon, the threat shifts to damaging winds (75+ mph). Tornadoes are possible throughout the afternoon and evening, a few of which could become strong (EF2+). The line of storms moves east of the region by late in the evening. Now is the time to ensure your severe weather shelter is accessible, that you can receive weather warnings, and possibly adjust any plans, especially if they are outdoors.

There may be a window for severe storms to develop across mainly northeast Iowa and southwest Wisconsin early Thursday afternoon. Whether this threat materializes will depend heavily on how storms evolve Wednesday afternoon. The severe weather risk would quickly depart by mid to late afternoon.

Increasing heat and humidity arrive for today and Wednesday. Heat indices rise to around 90 today and 95-105 degrees for Wednesday. The risk for showers and storms does lower confidence in the exact heat index values on Wednesday, but it should be humid regardless of the coverage of storms. If you have outdoor plans, be sure to plan appropriately and stay well-hydrated.

With the risk for a potentially significant severe weather event looming for tomorrow afternoon, now is the time to dust off your severe weather preparedness plan. Double check your that your safe places are accessible, make sure your phone can receive weather alerts, and be prepared to adjust any of your plans.