UPDATE: Slight Change in Severe Weather Alert for SE Minnesota, NE Iowa

UPDATE: Rochester Area Under Severe Thunderstorm Watch This Evening

The National Weather Service is monitoring a line of storms expected to move east across southeast Minnesota and northern Iowa this evening, bringing the potential for severe weather in some areas.

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The highest threat zone currently includes Rochester and areas to the south and southwest such as Austin, Albert Lea, Owatonna, Mason City, and Charles City. While not every community will see storms, the conditions are favorable for some storms to become strong or even severe.

UPDATE: NWS La Crosse says the slight risk area has shifted some. "There has been a slight shift northward in the slight risk (level 2 of 5) today toward Wabasha to include more of southeast Minnesota."

Primary Threats for Tonight’s Storms

The main concern is large hail, potentially reaching up to quarter size. "Should storms develop early this afternoon, these could produce larger sized hail," NWS says. "The main event will be as storms consolidate along a line to our west over central MN and move east into our area."

There is also a chance for localized strong wind gusts. Flooding is not expected, and the risk of tornadoes is low, but NWS says a tornado is still a possibility. "Additional more discrete storms could form ahead of the line in parts of northeast Iowa and southeast Minnesota. These storms could produce large hail, damaging winds, and possibly a tornado."

Timing of Potentially Severe Weather

Storm development is expected after 6 p.m., with activity continuing into the overnight hours, through 2 a.m. The main window for severe weather will occur this evening, and it’s important to stay weather aware as conditions can change rapidly.

Residents across southeast Minnesota and northeast Iowa should keep a close eye on the forecast tonight. If you have evening plans, make sure you’re prepared to take shelter quickly if severe storms approach your area.

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