Madison Weather Alert: Severe Thunderstorms, 60-mph Winds & Flash-Flood Warnings Tonight

Madison residents woke up to steamy, storm-laden skies Wednesday as temperatures climbed into the mid-80s and humidity pushed the heat index close to 90 °F. The National Weather Service and local First Alert meteorologists warn that multiple waves of strong to severe thunderstorms are likely through late Thursday, fueled by the same hot, muggy air mass currently blanketing southern Wisconsin. Storm timing and threats • Wednesday: The primary window for severe weather stretches from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Damaging wind gusts over 60 mph, torrential downpours capable of localized flooding, and hail up to 1 inch are possible. • Wednesday night: Scattered showers linger, keeping roads slick for the evening commute. • Thursday: Another round of storms redevelops by midday as a cold front slides in. Atmospheric dynamics could again support isolated tornadoes, especially east of Madison. How long will the heat last? Behind Thursday’s frontal passage, highs drop to the mid-70s Friday, offering a brief break before summer warmth returns this weekend. Saturday rebounds near 82 °F with lower humidity, while Sunday tops out in the low 70s under breezy northwest winds. Nights cool comfortably into the upper 50s, perfect for outdoor events like the Dane County Farmers’ Market. Looking ahead Early next week stays seasonable: mid-70s Monday and Tuesday with mostly sunny skies before scattered showers arrive mid-week. Gardeners should take advantage of the dry stretch to catch up on planting after this week’s soaking rains. Safety checklist • Enable wireless emergency alerts and keep a weather radio nearby. • Secure patio furniture; straight-line winds can turn loose items into projectiles. • If a warning is issued, move to an interior room on the lowest floor—do not wait to see the storm. • Never drive through flooded roadways; just six inches of moving water can stall a vehicle. Bottom line The Madison weather pattern remains volatile through Thursday evening. Stay sky-aware, hydrate in the oppressive humidity, and plan outdoor activities for the calmer, cooler weekend that follows.