As severe weather approaches Minnesota, authorities are urging residents of the Twin Cities and surrounding areas to take precautions and prepare for potentially dangerous conditions this afternoon and evening. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a “Particularly Dangerous Situation” tornado watch, a rare and serious alert, effective until 9 p.m. tonight.

The tornado watch encompasses nearly two dozen counties across southern Minnesota and extends into Iowa, covering areas south of the Minneapolis-St. Paul metro but reaches as far north as Scott, Carver, and Dakota counties. This alert warns of the likelihood of several strong tornadoes, with potential hail the size of softballs and wind gusts reaching up to 90 miles per hour.

In a social media post around 2:15 p.m., the NWS Twin Cities indicated a “good chance” that another watch may be issued to cover more of the metro area later in the day.

“We are expecting severe storms to move into the entire metro right around rush hour,” the NWS Twin Cities advised. “These storms will produce very heavy rain, strong winds, and possibly a tornado or two. This will be a good day to get home early if you can and avoid being stuck on the road when these storms hit.”

The timing of the storm is expected to significantly impact the evening commute, with severe weather predicted to hit the Twin Cities between 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. In response, various measures are being taken to ensure public safety.

School Closures and Cancellations

Several school districts have acted swiftly to mitigate risks by closing early. Stewartville Public Schools and Blooming Prairie Schools have both announced early closures. Additionally, Rochester Public Schools have cancelled all after-school sports and practices.

Public Advisory

With the severe weather approaching, the NWS and local authorities are advising residents to monitor weather updates closely and take the following precautions:

• Leave work early if possible to avoid travelling during the storm.
• Stay indoors and away from windows during severe weather.
• Prepare emergency kits with essential supplies such as water, non-perishable food, flashlights, and batteries.
• Have a plan for seeking shelter in the event of a tornado.

The NWS will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as necessary. Residents are encouraged to stay informed through local news and weather stations, as well as the NWS website and social media channels.

Conclusion

As the Twin Cities brace for this severe weather event, the primary concern remains the safety and well-being of all residents. By taking early precautions and staying informed, the community can better navigate the challenges posed by this potentially dangerous storm system.

For more information and updates, visit the National Weather Service website or follow NWS Twin Cities on social media.