ALERT DAY: Widespread strong to severe storms possible tonight

A significant severe weather outbreak is expected over much of Wisconsin tonight. A squall line of severe thunderstorms or derecho with widespread damaging winds of hurricane force or stronger is possible, along with several tornadoes. Hail and heavy rainfall are possible as well. The highest threat of severe weather will be for areas north of Madison, but there is a significant severe weather threat over all of southern Wisconsin.

Tonight will be variably cloudy, very mild, and muggy with scattered showers and thunderstorms; some thunderstorms may be severe with damaging winds, hail, heavy rainfall, and isolated tornadoes possible.

The main risk with the storms tonight is a potential for widespread strong winds.  There is also a significant risk for large hail, and a chance to see isolated tornadoes as well.

The storms tonight may form into what is called a ‘Derecho’, which is mesoscale convective system that has a long-lived path, and it usually delivers a punch of extremely strong straight-line winds. Derechos can cause hurricane force winds at times, so you need to stay weather aware tonight.

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Storm timing looks to fall in the evening and early nighttime hours, but if you see the skies darkening earlier, there is a chance, that storm could be strong to severe.

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In preparation for severe weather, now is the time to take action. Put plans into motion in case of severe weather affecting you during the event. Make sure if you have a NOAA weather radio the volume is turned up, you have batteries, food and other supplies in case of emergency. Make sure phones are charged and ready to go, have a shelter in place and helmets readily available in case of flying debris.

WISC-TV/Channel 3000