EAU CLAIRE, WISCONSIN — A tornado watch is expected to be issued shortly across Wisconsin, southeastern Minnesota and northeastern Iowa, as forecasters warn that a couple of significant supercells could bring violent tornadoes and destructive hail to the region by late afternoon.
95% Chance the Watch Becomes Official
Government meteorologists tracking the system have placed the probability of a formal tornado watch at 95 percent, signaling near-certainty that the alert will be issued within hours. Officials say the atmosphere over the region is already lining up the ingredients needed for a serious severe weather outbreak.
Winds Could Reach 145 MPH, Hail Up to 2.5 Inches
Forecast models point to potential tornado wind speeds peaking between 120 and 145 mph, a range capable of causing severe structural damage. Wind gusts outside of tornadoes could still hit 65 to 80 mph, while hailstones may grow as large as 1.5 to 2.5 inches — big enough to shatter windshields and damage roofs.
Danger Zone Spans Three States
The threat area stretches from Hayward and Rice Lake down through Eau Claire, continuing south to La Crosse and Prairie du Chien, and reaching into Rochester, Minnesota, and Decorah, Iowa. Millions across this corridor are being told to stay alert as the afternoon unfolds.
A Hidden Factor Could Change Everything
Meteorologists are closely watching a shifting outflow boundary near Albert Lea and Austin, Minnesota — a feature that could determine exactly where the most dangerous storms take shape and how quickly they intensify.
Officials Urge Residents to Prepare Now
Authorities say every severe weather hazard is on the table Wednesday evening, from large hail to tornadoes touching down with little warning. Residents in the affected counties are being urged to keep a reliable way to receive emergency alerts and avoid travel once storms begin forming later in the day.