Severe Weather and Tornado Watch Issued for Parts of Minnesota and Wisconsin

Severe Storms Prompt a Tornado Watch Across Minnesota and Wisconsin

A tornado watch has been established for multiple areas across Minnesota and Wisconsin as a wave of severe afternoon thunderstorms tracks through the region. Meteorological authorities are closely monitoring the progression of the storm cells, which are generating heavy downpours, intense winds, and large hail.

Current Warnings and Impacted Communities

Earlier in the day, the National Weather Service issued active warnings for several specific zones. Tornado warnings were put in place for Dakota and Goodhue Counties until 5:30 p.m., affecting locations southeast of the Twin Cities metro such as Cannon Falls, Hampton, and Randolph. Residents in those areas were advised to seek immediate shelter in the lowest level of a building inside an interior room away from windows.

Additionally, Severe Thunderstorm Warnings were designated for Dakota, Rice, and Scott Counties until 5 p.m., covering communities like Lakeville, Apple Valley, and Rosemount. A separate warning was logged for parts of Meeker, Stearns, and Wright counties—including Annandale, Kimball, and Watkins—until 2:45 p.m.

Hail and Rotation Reports

Storm cells tracking east and northeast from Rice to Dakota County showed several indications of rotation. Central Minnesota experienced particularly intense conditions, highlighted by a notable report of 3-inch hail near Atwater in Kandiyohi County shortly before 2:00 p.m. Other areas witnessed smaller hail coupled with steady rainfall.

Outlook for the Twin Cities and Surrounding Regions

The Twin Cities metro area remains under a Level 2 slight risk for severe weather conditions, which encompass potential isolated tornadoes, damaging winds, and large hail. As the regional weather system continues to push toward the northeast, authorities and meteorologists continue to provide live updates regarding the duration and movement of the active storm fronts.

Sources: FOX 9 Minneapolis-St. Paul, WEAU, 5 EYEWITNESS NEWS.