Tornado sirens echoed across Minneapolis on Thursday as a powerful storm moved through Minnesota, prompting the National Weather Service to issue a Tornado Warning for Minneapolis, Coon Rapids, and Blaine until 2:45 PM.
Tornado Watch 251 remains in effect for parts of Minnesota and Wisconsin until 8 PM CDT on Thursday, according to an alert from the National Weather Service (NWS). The watch was issued as severe storms continue to move through the region, bringing the threat of tornadoes, large hail, and damaging winds.
Widespread Tornado Watch Issued Across Minnesota and Wisconsin
In Minnesota, the watch covers 21 counties. Central Minnesota counties include Benton, Meeker, Morrison, Sherburne, Stearns, Todd, and Wright. The watch also impacts East Central Minnesota, including counties like Anoka, Carver, Dakota, Hennepin, and Ramsey. Additionally, Goodhue in Southeast Minnesota and Douglas and Pope in West Central Minnesota are under the watch.
Wisconsin has 9 counties affected. The watch covers northwest counties including Barron, Polk, and Rusk, and also includes West Central counties such as Chippewa, Dunn, Eau Claire, Pepin, Pierce, and St. Croix. Authorities are urging residents in both states to remain alert and monitor local weather updates throughout the day.
Several cities are under the watch, including major metro areas and smaller communities. Notable cities include Minneapolis, St. Paul, Blaine, Red Wing, Alexandria, Chippewa Falls, Eau Claire, Hudson, and River Falls. The widespread nature of the alert underscores the potential severity of the weather system.
Residents are advised to have emergency plans in place and seek shelter immediately if a warning is issued in their area. The NWS continues to monitor conditions closely and may update or extend warnings as the situation develops.
Also Read: Tom Cruise makes a dashing comeback at Cannes 2025
