Tornado Watch Issued For Twin Cities Metro And Beyond

MINNESOTA — A tornado watch is in effect for the Twin Cities metro and a wide swath of central and southern Minnesota as severe storms threaten the region Thursday afternoon and evening.

The National Weather Service said the watch remains in place until 8 p.m. and includes the potential for tornadoes, damaging winds, and large hail.

Thursday's environment is "becoming more favorable for severe weather across much of southern and central Minnesota as well as parts of far western Wisconsin this afternoon," the NWS said.

Forecasters warn that storms could bring hail larger than two inches in diameter, wind gusts exceeding 60 mph, and isolated tornadoes, particularly during the hottest part of the day.

Counties under the watch include:

Aitkin, Anoka, Benton, Carver, Cass, Chisago, Crow Wing, Dakota, Douglas, Goodhue, Grant, Hennepin, Isanti, Kanabec, Kandiyohi, McLeod, Meeker, Mille Lacs, Morrison, Otter Tail, Pine, Pope, Ramsey, Scott, Sherburne, Stearns, Stevens, Swift, Todd, Wabasha, Wadena, Washington, Wilkin, Winona, and Wright.

A tornado watch means conditions are favorable for the formation of tornadoes and other severe weather. Residents should stay alert and be ready to take shelter if warnings are issued.

Patch will continue to provide updates as storms develop.