As supercell thunderstorms continue to sweep across the Midwest, residents of Minnesota and Wisconsin are bracing for the worst. On Tuesday evening, a severe thunderstorm watch was issued for southeastern Minnesota and southwestern Wisconsin as the storms moved northeastward from Iowa. The storms are expected to bring very large hail and isolated damaging winds, prompting the National Weather Service to issue warnings for those in the affected areas.
Threat of Large Hail
According to the Storm Prediction Center, the main threat posed by the storms is the potential for very large hail. Hail up to the size of tennis balls, or 2.5 inches in diameter, is expected to fall across the area, which could cause significant damage to cars, homes, and other property. Residents are advised to stay indoors and avoid driving during the storm if possible.
Isolated Damaging Winds
In addition to the threat of large hail, there is also a risk of isolated damaging winds as the storms move through the area. While the strongest winds are expected to remain in northeast Iowa and southwest Wisconsin, residents of southeastern Minnesota should also be prepared for gusts that could cause damage to trees and power lines.
HRRR Weather Model Shows Storms Evolving
The HRRR weather model is predicting that the storms will continue to evolve and move northeastward between 7 p.m. and 1 a.m., with the Twin Cities potentially being affected by strong storms that could remain below severe limits. However, residents in the watch area should remain vigilant and be prepared for the potential of severe weather.
As supercell thunderstorms move into Minnesota and Wisconsin, residents are urged to take precautions to protect themselves and their property. Stay indoors and avoid driving during the storm if possible, and be prepared for the potential of large hail and damaging winds. The National Weather Service will continue to monitor the situation and issue updates as necessary.
