Life-Threatening Waves And Damaging Storms Hitting Milwaukee Area Now: NWS

MILWAUKEE, WI — Dangerous weather is unfolding across southeastern Wisconsin Monday afternoon, with the National Weather Service warning of life-threatening Lake Michigan waves and severe storms capable of damaging winds and flash flooding.

A Severe Thunderstorm Watch remains in effect until 6 p.m. for Milwaukee, Waukesha, Racine, Kenosha, Ozaukee, Washington, Dodge, Jefferson, Walworth, and Rock counties.

Forecasters say storms could produce:

• Winds up to 60 mph
• Quarter-size hail
• Torrential downpours topping 2 inches per hour
• Localized flash flooding in urban areas and river basins
• A brief, isolated tornado

Radar also shows storms moving through Milwaukee County, where a Special Weather Statement is in effect for winds near 50 mph, strong enough to knock down branches and toss around unsecured items.

More storms are expected to develop later today and tonight, increasing the flood risk for areas hit multiple times.

Along the lakeshore, a Beach Hazards Statement and high swim risk remain in effect through Monday afternoon for Sheboygan, Ozaukee, Milwaukee, Racine, and Kenosha counties. Waves of 3 to 7 feet and powerful currents make swimming unsafe. Officials urge people to stay out of the water and away from piers and breakwalls.

What To Do Right Now:

• Seek shelter if a warning is issued.
• Stay indoors during storms and keep away from windows.
• Do not drive through flooded roads.
• Secure patio furniture, umbrellas, and other loose items.
• Avoid Lake Michigan until conditions improve.

Forecasters say additional storms could develop over Iowa and track into Wisconsin between 3 p.m. and 8 p.m., keeping the risk for damaging weather in place through tonight