Stay Alert: Five Potential Rounds of Severe Storms
Key Points:
- The National Weather Service forecasts multiple rounds of severe thunderstorms in the Madison area from early Wednesday morning through Thursday evening, with potential for strong winds, large hail, tornadoes, and localized flash flooding.
- Severe Thunderstorm Warnings may include a “destructive tag” for storms producing 80+ mph winds or baseball-sized hail, triggering outdoor sirens and cell phone alerts; residents are urged to seek shelter immediately if such warnings are issued.
- Temperatures on Wednesday are expected to be hot enough to potentially trigger a Heat Advisory, with safety advice including staying hydrated, limiting outdoor activity, and using air-conditioned public spaces if possible.
- Residents should stay informed through local weather coverage, emergency sirens, phone alerts, and Dane County's Emergency Notification System, and prepare emergency kits with essential supplies including food, water, medications, and pet care items.
- Safe shelter recommendations include interior rooms on the lowest floor or basements for homes and buildings; mobile home residents should seek designated storm shelters or stay with others in safer structures during severe weather.