Tornado Watch Issued For Southern Wisconsin Into Friday Night

WISCONSIN — A tornado watch went into effect across much of southern Wisconsin Friday afternoon and will last into the night amid a possibility of thunderstorms, wind, hail, and conditions that could lead to tornadoes.

The National Weather Service said severe storms are most likely mid-afternoon to mid-evening, especially along the Interstate 94 corridor. Large hail up to the size of golf balls, damaging winds up to 70 mph, and a few tornadoes are possible.

The tornado watch lasts until 10 p.m. on Friday and includes Dane, Green, Iowa, Jefferson, Kenosha, LaFayette, Milwaukee, Racine, Rock, Sauk, Walworth and Waukesha Counties.

A tornado watch is also in effect in Crawford, Grant and Richland Counties until 8 p.m., according to the NWS.

See also: Hail, Damaging Winds Possible In Milwaukee Friday: WI Weather

Forecasters issue a tornado watch when expected weather conditions could lead to a tornado. A warning is reserved for when a tornado has been sighted or shown on radar, posing an immediate danger to life and property. When a watch is issued, the NWS said you should prepare with an emergency plan and supplies. If a warning is issued, it's time to take action and move to the closest substantial shelter (like a basement or center room) to protect yourself from flying debris.

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