People in parts of Wisconsin should prepare for possible travel delays early Monday morning due to a line of storms bringing strong winds and lightning. While the storms are expected to weaken, they could still cause problems, especially during the morning rush.
Storms Moving from Minnesota and Iowa
According to the National Weather Service in Milwaukee, a line of storms is expected to move down from Minnesota and Iowa overnight. These storms could reach Wisconsin between 4 a.m. and 9 a.m. on Monday.
The storm’s strength and exact path are still uncertain, but western and central parts of the state are most likely to be affected.
Areas Most at Risk
The areas that could see the most impact include Eau Claire, La Crosse, Tomah, and Portage. These regions may experience gusty winds and frequent lightning strikes. If the storm continues to hold its strength, cities like Madison, Green Bay, and Milwaukee could also see some effects during the morning commute.
What to Expect on the Roads
Early morning travellers might face slippery roads, brief power outages, and minor delays. Strong winds may knock down tree limbs or power lines, especially along I-94 and US-53. This could make driving conditions risky during the peak travel time.
The main dangers with this storm system are lightning and wind gusts. The Storm Prediction Center has placed parts of the state under a “Slight Risk” zone, which means weather disruptions are possible, though not guaranteed.
Safety Tips for Commuters
Officials are advising everyone to stay alert and take some simple steps to stay safe. Make sure to charge your mobile phones and other important devices overnight in case of power cuts.
Also, secure any loose items outside your home, like garden furniture or garbage bins, so they don’t get blown away by the wind.
Check weather updates before you leave in the morning. If you can, allow extra time for travel or consider delaying your commute if conditions look bad.
Storms to Calm Down by Mid-Morning
The storm activity is expected to reduce between 8 a.m. and 10 a.m., but that could change depending on how the system develops overnight. People should keep an eye on updated forecasts or alerts from local weather services.
While this line of storms may not be severe for everyone, it’s still strong enough to cause some issues, especially for those on the road early in the morning.
Western and central Wisconsin should be extra cautious, and even cities like Milwaukee, Madison, and Green Bay may see some impact. It’s always better to stay informed and be prepared, especially during changing weather conditions.
