“Severe Thunderstorm Warning: What You Must Do Now to Stay Safe”

Milwaukee, WI—A fresh Severe Thunderstorm Warning from the National Weather Service (NWS) is blanketing much of southeast Wisconsin this afternoon, with storms racing east-southeast at up to 55 mph. Kenosha, Racine, Milwaukee, Waukesha, Ozaukee, Washington, Dodge, Jefferson and Fond du Lac counties are all under the gun until at least 1:30 p.m. CDT, and additional warnings may follow as the line advances toward Lake Michigan. Key threats • Wind gusts 60–90 mph capable of uprooting trees and downing power lines • Hail up to tennis-ball size, already reported near Pleasant Prairie and Green Bay • Very heavy rain producing brief urban flooding • Isolated tornadoes possible along the leading edge of the squall line Timing and storm track Radar shows the most intense cells pivoting out of Dodge and Washington counties toward the I-94 corridor. Communities from West Bend to downtown Milwaukee should expect the strongest winds before 12:45 p.m., while Sheboygan and Manitowoc could see the line after 1 p.m. A separate cluster continues to slam Green Bay and the Fox Valley. Outdoor events scheduled for the noon hour are strongly discouraged. What the warning means An NWS Severe Thunderstorm Warning signals that storms capable of producing 1-inch hail or 58 mph winds (or both) are imminent; life and property are at risk for anyone in the storm’s path. Sirens may sound, and wireless emergency alerts will ping smartphones. Safety tips right now • Get indoors—preferably to an interior room on the lowest floor. • Stay off roads; falling trees and blinding rain can make travel deadly. • Secure patio furniture, umbrellas and trampolines that can become airborne. • Unplug sensitive electronics to guard against power surges. • If driving and no shelter is available, pull over, keep seat belt fastened and angle the vehicle away from the wind. Possible escalation The Storm Prediction Center maintains an Enhanced (Level 3 of 5) risk for northeast Indiana and northwest Ohio later today, meaning the same squall line may hold strength after crossing the state line. Tornado Watches are also in effect south of the Wisconsin border, so residents from Chicago to Fort Wayne should stay weather-aware into the evening. Staying informed Monitor NOAA Weather Radio, local media apps and @NWSMilwaukee or @NWSGreenBay on social platforms for instant updates. If power fails, battery-powered radios and backup phone chargers can be lifesavers. Bottom line: the current Severe Thunderstorm Warning is producing destructive winds and large hail. Take action now to protect yourself, loved ones and property until the NWS gives the all-clear.