Minnesota Braces for Severe Storms: What You Need to Know

Minnesota faced a challenging day with severe weather on the horizon. The state was under a tornado watch, with the most intense activity expected between 4 and 7 p. m. in the Twin Cities metro area. This wasn't just any storm; it was a level 4 out of 5 risk, meaning people needed to be extra cautious. Schools across the state took precautions early. Many districts ended classes ahead of schedule and canceled after-school activities. This move was smart, as it allowed students and staff to get home safely before the weather turned nasty. The National Weather Service warned of large hail, damaging winds, and even strong tornadoes. It wasn't just the Twin Cities in the danger zone either. A large part of Minnesota, along with western Wisconsin, was at risk. The weather service urged everyone to stay alert. They advised people to have a plan and know where to find shelter if things got bad. It's always a good idea to have a way to get weather updates, whether it's through a phone app or a weather radio. Being prepared can make a big difference. The storms didn't waste any time making their presence known. By 3:39 p. m. , a tornado warning was issued near St. Cloud. Just a few minutes later, a tornado watch was extended to include the Twin Cities and other areas. The main threats were large hail and possible tornadoes. People in the affected areas were told to stay indoors and away from windows. The storms brought more than just wind and rain. Reports came in of baseball-sized hail in parts of southern Minnesota. This kind of hail can cause serious damage to cars and buildings. The weather service also issued severe thunderstorm warnings for other parts of the state, including areas near Brainerd and Worthington. These storms were moving fast, so people needed to be ready to act quickly. The day started with schools and cities making preparations. Many districts closed early, and Minneapolis shut down non-essential services. The city also reached out to homeless shelters to ensure everyone had a safe place to go. Utilities were on high alert, ready to respond to any power outages caused by fallen trees or damaged lines. It was a day of waiting and watching, hoping the worst wouldn't happen.