Severe Storms Could Slam Minnesota Tonight with Large Hail, Damaging Winds, and Tornado Risk

Forecasters are warning that a potentially volatile evening lies ahead for parts of Minnesota and western Wisconsin, as multiple rounds of strong to severe thunderstorms are expected to develop later today.

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The National Weather Service offices in Twin Cities and La Crosse both say there is a potential threat for damaging winds, large hail, and even a few tornadoes.

When And Where Will Severe Storms Arrive Across Minnesota Today?

The storms are expected to form across the region this afternoon and evening. Timing will vary depending on your location.

In western Minnesota, storms could begin to pop up as early as 4 to 7 p.m., while areas in eastern Minnesota and western Wisconsin, including the Twin Cities and Red Wing, are more likely to see storms between 7 and 10 p.m.

The La Crosse office anticipates the window of highest risk running from 6 p.m. to midnight as the storms track southeastward across the region.

The Storm Prediction Center has placed much of central and southern Minnesota, including Minneapolis, St. Paul, Mankato, and St. Cloud, under an enhanced risk (Level 3 of 5) for severe weather.

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Southeast Minnesota cities like Rochester and Austin fall under a Slight Risk (Level 2), where scattered severe storms are possible but not as widespread. Western Wisconsin, including La Crosse, Winona, and Eau Claire, also faces a Level 2 risk.

What Are the Potential Hazards of the Storms in Minnesota Today?

The main hazards include damaging wind gusts up to 60 or 70 miles per hour, hail that could reach the size of golf balls, and the possibility of a few tornadoes. Forecasters are also watching for the potential of locally heavy rainfall, which could lead to isolated flash flooding in some areas.

NWS says there is still some uncertainty about how things will play out, particularly due to morning rain and cloud cover. If those clear out early enough, the chances of more intense storms this evening increase. The La Crosse office notes that storm strength may diminish overnight as the line of storms moves southeastward out of the area, but says that the exact timing and track could change.

You should stay weather-aware throughout the day today. Make sure your phone is charged, have a plan in place if severe weather strikes, and have more than one way to receive warnings.

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