MINNEAPOLIS (FOX 9) – There is a moderate risk of severe weather for Monday, and this includes the Twin Cities and most of central and southern Minnesota.
The last time a day three moderate risk outlook was predicted for our area was on April 8, 2011.
Moderate risk of severe storms Monday
FOX 9 weather forecast. (FOX 9)
What does this mean?:
A moderate risk is a level four out of five risk for severe weather. An area of widespread severe weather with several tornadoes, large hail, damaging winds and frequent lightning likely on Monday.
Strong to severe thunderstorms are expected to hit the Twin Cities metro area and the southeast corner of the state.
Timeline of possible severe storms
First round:
The first round of storms will hit the metro area around 5 a.m. Monday, bringing with it the potential for large hail.
We will catch a break by early afternoon. This will allow our atmosphere to regroup and destabilize for the second wave.
Second round:
The greatest threat of severe storms is in the late afternoon/early evening.
All severe modes are possible: large hail, damaging winds, and tornadoes.
The tornado threat is very dependent on the structure of storms.
If discrete supercells are able to form ahead of a squall line, then we can expect strong and intense tornadoes.
If the storms quickly become linear, then we can expect weaker, short-lived tornadoes to be embedded within the line of storms.
How to prepare for severe storms
What you can do:
Develop a severe weather safety plan. Make sure you have ways to receive warnings and updates.
Review your safe places for shelter – whether you’re at home, at school, or in a public place. Have a communication plan with family and friends.
Stay tuned to FOX 9 as we will keep you updated throughout the weekend.
City of Minneapolis warning
What they’re saying:
Minneapolis City officials are asking residents to “to be weather aware and take precautions” ahead of the severe storms predicted on Monday.
The city reiterated warnings from meteorologists; saying “tornadoes, large hail, damaging winds, and frequent lightning” are all likely in tomorrow’s forecast.
Citing the unusually high risk of severe weather, Minneapolis city officials shared the following tips:
- Make sure you have access to alerts.
- Be ready to take shelter in a basement or interior room on the lowest level if an alert is issued.
- Secure outdoor furniture and décor so they aren’t blown away by strong winds.
- Clear leaves and debris from the front of catch basins, so water can reach the drain.
- Prepare for possible power outages by charging devices and having a flashlight ready.
More tips can be found here, and Minneapolis alerts can be received by texting MPLSAlerts to 77295 or by signing up here.
The Source: This story used information from the FOX 9 weather forecast and a news release from the City of Minneapolis.
