Some Severe Weather Possible in SE Minnesota Tuesday

The National Weather Service says there's a marginal risk of severe weather across southeastern Minnesota Tuesday evening, with the greatest severe weather threat coming between 5 pm and 9 pm.

Large hail and strong, gusty winds are the primary risks with any storms that could become severe, although a few tornadoes are also possible.

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Severe thunderstorms will be possible across southern Minnesota Tuesday. Stay tuned to the forecast and have multiple ways to receive warnings, as thunderstorms will have the potential to produce damaging winds, large hail, and a few tornadoes.

The remainder of the week looks fairly wet as well, with chances of showers and storms through Saturday.

The National Weather Service and the Minnesota Department of Public Safety offer these thoughts and guidelines for staying safe during Minnesota's severe weather season.

Thunderstorms

Thunderstorms affect relatively small areas, compared with most other storms. The typical thunderstorm is 15 miles in diameter and lasts for 30 minutes — but whatever their size, all thunderstorms are dangerous.  Lightning is one of weather's top killers.

Severe thunderstorms produce large hail or winds of at least 58 mph. Some wind gusts can exceed 100 mph and produce tornado-like damage. That’s why many communities will sound their outdoor sirens for damaging straight-line winds. When a severe thunderstorm threatens, stay inside a strong structure. Mobile home occupants should go to a more permanent structure.

Hail

Hail is product of thunderstorms that causes nearly $1 billion in damage every year. Most hail is about pea-sized. Much of it is the size of baseballs, and it can reach grapefruit-size. Large hail stones fall faster than 100 mph and have been known to kill people.

Lightning

Every thunderstorm produces lightning! Lightning kills an average of 47 Americans each year. Hundreds more are severely injured.

• No place outside is safe when thunderstorms are in the area!
• If you hear thunder, lightning is close enough to strike you.
• When you hear thunder, immediately move to safe shelter: a substantial building with electricity or plumbing or an enclosed, metal-topped vehicle with windows up.
• Stay in safe shelter at least 30 minutes after you hear the last sound of thunder.