Minnesota Weather Alert Issued as Tornado Watch Expands
Which regions are on watch?
The tornado watch includes western and southern Minnesota where storms are expected to develop or move through with greater intensity. The risk may be greater for some counties depending on the path of the storm and local conditions. “For those in watch zones, please make sure your phones are charged and weather alerts are on.
- The storms may be more active in communities west of Minnesota.
- Wind, hail threats possible across southern Minnesota
- Rural areas should be prepared for visibility restrictions and power issues.
- Motorists are reminded to avoid flooded or storm damaged roads.
Extension of the Tornado Watch
There was a more favourable ingredient for severe weather and that led to the watch being expanded. Warm, humid air, strong winds at different levels of the atmosphere and an approaching storm system can aid in the development of rotating thunderstorms. With these in place, forecasters can stretch a watch to include areas where tornadoes or severe storms might develop.
What is a Tornado Watch?
That doesn’t mean a tornado is on the ground yet. Be prepared for tornadoes that may break out of storms. A tornado warning is more serious and means rotation has been detected by radar or a tornado has been spotted. If a warning is given, residents should go to shelter immediately.
- Watch is to be sober and awake.
- Warning is get covered and act now.
- Avoid windows during severe storms.
- If advised, take cover in a basement or interior room.
- Use more than one alert source – not just sirens.
What risks are residents facing?
The main threats are damaging wind gusts, large hail, heavy rain, lightning and an isolated tornado. Even if they don’t produce tornadoes storms can cause damage to trees, roofs, vehicles and power lines. Heavy rain can also cause temporary flooding, especially in low-lying or poorly drained areas.
What are families to do now?
Families need to review their emergency plans before the storms arrive. Get ready for outages . Keep shoes nearby . Tie down loose objects . Have flashlights on hand . Choose a safe room . Mobile homes are not safe in the case of tornado warnings, so people in mobile homes need to find a sturdier shelter option early.
- Charge your phones and your spare power banks.
- Keep a weather radio or alert app on hand.
- Bring pets inside before the storm starts.
- Bring in patio furniture, trash cans.
- Know the safest room in your home.
When should people take cover?
If a tornado warning is issued or if sirens sound or people see signs of a dangerous storm, they should seek shelter immediately. A rotating cloud , flying debris , roaring wind , or a sudden calm after severe weather are all signs of a tornado . Don’t wait until you see a tornado to take action.
How To Keep Drivers Safe
Running in a heavy storm can be dangerous. High winds can tip vehicles, hail can obscure vision, and flooded roads can hide serious hazards. Drivers are asked to postpone non-essential travel while warnings are in effect. If you are caught outside, stay away from bridges and overpasses and try to get inside a sturdy building if possible.
- Do not drive through flooded roads.If you don’t see, stop safely.
- Do not park under trees or electric lines.
- Avoid taking cover under highway overpasses.
What’s next for Minnesota weather
Conditions will deteriorate quickly as the storm system moves across the area. Some storms lose energy after dark and some are strong enough to warrant warnings. Residents should continue to check the National Weather Service, local emergency alerts and trusted meteorologists for updates until the threat of severe weather has passed.
Why is it important to be alert?
Tornado watches can be a routine thing at times, but they should always be taken seriously. “Severe weather can develop in minutes with little time to react. A ready household will be more likely to stay safe, not panic and respond quickly if the watch turns into a tornado warning.
