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A tornado watch is in effect for the greater Twin Cities area, parts of eastern Minnesota and western Wisconsin as potentially severe thunderstorms gain strength Wednesday. The watch remains active until 9 p.m., according to KSTP and Minnesota’s Weather Authority.
Forecasters are warning residents to prepare for rapidly changing conditions during the afternoon and evening. While severe weather will not affect every location, some communities could experience dangerous storms capable of producing damaging winds, hail, lightning, heavy rain and isolated tornadoes.
Urgent Tornado Watch Covers Twin Cities Region
The storm system is expected to travel from west to east across central Minnesota. A line of showers and thunderstorms should develop west of the Twin Cities around midday before strengthening as it approaches the metro area.
Storms are expected to move into the west metro after 3 p.m. From there, the line could continue across the greater Twin Cities during the afternoon and evening hours, including a period that overlaps with the evening commute.
The timing could also affect after-school activities, sports practices, community events and other outdoor plans. Residents are encouraged to keep weather alerts nearby and have a safe indoor location identified before storms arrive.
Powerful Storm Threats Include Tornadoes and Hail
The most significant concern is the potential for a few strong or severe thunderstorms. KSTP reports that the strongest cells could produce several hazards across the watch area.
- Gusty winds reaching up to 60 mph
- A couple of possible tornadoes
- Scattered hail as large as ping-pong balls, measuring about 1.5 inches in diameter
- Frequent lightning
- Periods of heavy rain
Not every storm will become severe, but conditions may intensify quickly. A storm that begins as a typical shower can strengthen as it moves east, making it important for residents to monitor updated forecasts throughout the day.
What Residents Should Do Before Storms Arrive
People living in the Twin Cities, eastern Minnesota and western Wisconsin should review their severe weather plans before the afternoon storm line develops. A sturdy building is the safest place during thunderstorms, particularly when tornado warnings or damaging wind warnings are issued.
Those planning to drive during the afternoon or evening should allow extra time and remain alert for sudden downpours, reduced visibility, standing water and fallen branches. Drivers should never attempt to cross a flooded roadway and should avoid stopping beneath trees or near power lines during strong winds.
Families with children involved in practices, games or outdoor events should check with organizers for schedule changes. Event leaders may need to move activities indoors or cancel them if storms approach during the afternoon.
Stay Alert as the Forecast Evolves
A tornado watch means conditions are favorable for tornadoes and severe thunderstorms, but it does not mean that a tornado has been spotted in every location. Residents should continue monitoring official alerts and be prepared to move indoors quickly if a warning is issued.
People should keep phones charged, enable emergency notifications and avoid relying on outdoor warning sirens alone. Sirens are designed primarily to alert people outside and may not be heard indoors, especially during heavy rain or high winds.
The storm threat is expected to shift eastward through the evening. Western Wisconsin may see activity later as the system moves across the region. The most dangerous conditions will depend on the storm line’s development, strength and exact path.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Tornado Watch
How long is the tornado watch in effect?
The tornado watch is in effect for the greater Twin Cities area, parts of eastern Minnesota and western Wisconsin until 9 p.m. Wednesday.
When will storms reach the Twin Cities?
Storms are expected to develop west of the metro around midday and move into the west metro after 3 p.m., with additional activity possible during the evening.
What severe weather is possible?
Threats include wind gusts up to 60 mph, a couple of tornadoes, ping-pong-size hail, lightning and heavy rain.
What is the difference between a watch and a warning?
A watch means conditions are favorable for severe weather. A warning means dangerous weather has been detected or indicated and people should take immediate action.
What should I do if a warning is issued?
Move indoors immediately, preferably to a small interior room on the lowest level away from windows. Continue monitoring official alerts until the threat has passed.
