Wisconsin In Bullseye Risk For Severe Storms

MADISON, Wis (CIVIC MEDIA) – Hail, high winds and even tornadoes target the state Thursday – here’s what you need to know.

The Storm Prediction Center has issued an Enhanced Risk for severe weather to spread across a majority of Wisconsin on Thursday, May 15.

The temperatures will rise to the 80s for most of the day, hitting near 90 in some spots. Paired with muggy conditions and dew points in the 60s, it’ll feel like a hot summer’s day in the sun. Meanwhile, it’s creating the perfect mixture of fuel supercells in the afternoon, capable of doing some damage.

Strong to severe thunderstorms are expected to spark midday by 3 p.m. west and move central quickly. Very large hail and a few tornadoes may occur. The thunderstorms will roll eastward into central areas of the state through the early evening.

Storms should arrive in eastern places like Milwaukee and Green Bay by 7 p.m., likely in a line. They will bring the threat of high winds and hail, and an embedded tornado can’t be ruled out either.

Much needed rainfall is expected, around 0.25″ to 0.50″, while some spots may pick up near 1.00″ of rain. This will help lessen the wildfire risk and red flag warnings from earlier in the week.

Here’s what you can do to prepare for a tornado warning:

Gather gear and put it in your designated shelter spot. You’ll want things like sturdy shoes, medicine, water, snacks, pet food, flashlight and a battery bank.

When it comes to large hail, stay inside. Get away from windows; it can break them, as well as car windshields.