Storms with powerful lightning, hail, and at least one confirmed tornado swept through the upper Midwest on Monday. The authorities warn of the possibility of more destructive tornadoes.
The National Weather Service has flagged the highest storm risks as a 4 on a scale of 1 to 5, with southern Minnesota, including the Minneapolis-St. The Paul area, northern Iowa, and western Wisconsin are facing the greatest danger. Meteorologists forecast two rounds of severe weather, with tornadoes potentially reaching EF-2 strength or higher.
“The most dangerous period is likely during the late afternoon and evening when strong tornado potential should be maximized,”
stated experts at the Storm Prediction Center in Norman, Oklahoma.
Reports from the National Weather Service in the Twin Cities confirmed an observed tornado in Fairmont, Minnesota, located southwest of Minneapolis. However, it remains uncertain whether the tornado actually touched down.
Pea-to-marble-sized hail struck Faribault County, Minnesota, as heavy rainfall drenched the region, said Sheriff Scott Adams. “A heavy downpour — it became extremely dark out,” he reported.
The National Weather Service also received multiple reports of tornadoes near Winnebago, Minnesota, roughly 110 miles southwest of Minneapolis-St. Paul. However, those reports remain unconfirmed, and no wind damage had been observed by Monday evening.
This situation continues to be monitored as additional storm risks loom for the region.
Also Read: Minnesota Braces for Rare Severe Weather Event on Monday
