People in central and northern Wisconsin should be ready for a stormy weekend, as powerful thunderstorms are expected to sweep through late Friday into early Saturday. Cities like Wausau, Eau Claire, and Rhinelander are likely to see damaging winds, heavy rain, and possible hail. If you’re in these areas, it’s important to stay alert and plan ahead for changing weather conditions.
Storms Begin Friday Afternoon and Grow Overnight
According to the National Weather Service in Green Bay, the first signs of thunderstorms will appear Friday afternoon in western Wisconsin. These storms are expected to get stronger as they move eastward through the night.
The most intense weather is likely to occur late Friday evening into early Saturday, with north-central Wisconsin in the highest risk zone. As the storms move, they could bring:
Wind gusts up to 60 mph
Hail as large as 1 inch
Heavy rainfall, leading to possible flooding in cities and near rivers
Areas Most at Risk
The main cities that could be affected by the severe weather include:
Wausau
Eau Claire
Rhinelander
Marshfield
Stevens Point
Urban areas are especially at risk of flash flooding if rain falls quickly. Rivers and low-lying areas should also be watched closely, as runoff can cause water levels to rise quickly.
Prepare for a Humid, Uncomfortable Weekend
Even outside of storm hours, the weekend is expected to feel sticky due to rising humidity. While it won’t be dangerously hot, the muggy weather can still make outdoor activities tiring. Keep hydrated and take breaks if you’re spending time outside.
The exact path and strength of storms as they move toward northeast Wisconsin is still uncertain. This means the situation could change quickly, and updates from local weather services should be followed closely.
Safety Tips for the Weekend Weather
Here are some easy steps to stay safe and prepared:
Charge your devices before Friday evening and keep a power bank ready.
Enable emergency weather alerts on your phone or use a weather radio.
Avoid traveling at night during the storm window if possible.
Bring in or secure outdoor items like garden furniture or flags.
Clear gutters and drains to help reduce flood risks.
Stay indoors during storms, especially during high wind periods.
Storm Risk Could Continue into Sunday
The stormy pattern may continue into Sunday, with more showers and a chance of storms still possible. While these might not be as strong as Friday night’s storms, they could still bring heavy rain or lightning. It’s best to keep weekend plans flexible and keep checking updates.
