On Thursday, May 15, 2025, the Midwest braced for a significant severe weather event, with a tornado watch issued across parts of Minnesota, Wisconsin, and northern Illinois. The National Weather Service (NWS) and the Storm Prediction Center (SPC) warned of potentially dangerous conditions, including the risk of tornadoes, large hail, and damaging winds. Cities like Minneapolis, Chicago, and Milwaukee were on high alert, with residents seeking information on “tornado near me” and “tornado warning near me.” This article delves into the intricacies of a tornado watch, recent weather events, and how to stay safe during severe weather.
What is a Tornado Watch?
A tornado watch is issued by the NWS when weather conditions are favorable for the development of tornadoes in a specific area. Unlike a tornado warning, which indicates that a tornado has been sighted or detected by radar and immediate action is required, a tornado watch serves as an early alert to prepare for potential severe weather. According to the NWS, a tornado watch typically covers a large geographic area and lasts for several hours, urging residents to stay informed through sources like Weather.com or local outlets such as Fox 9 News.
For instance, on May 15, 2025, a tornado watch was issued for 35 counties in Minnesota, including the Twin Cities metro area, and 20 counties in Wisconsin, stretching from the North Dakota border to La Crosse, Wisconsin. This watch, effective until 8 p.m. CDT, highlighted the potential for tornadoes, hail up to 3 inches in diameter, and wind gusts reaching 70 mph.[](https://www.startribune.com/tornado-watch-issued-across-central-minnesota-into-wisconsin/601354622)[](https://x.com/TornadoWeather/status/1923097644810866758)
Recent Tornado Activity in the Midwest
The Midwest experienced a turbulent week, with severe weather storms tornadoes impacting multiple states. On Thursday, as many as 10 tornadoes touched down in Minnesota and western Wisconsin, according to Fox 9 News. A tornado warning Minneapolis was issued at 2:25 p.m., covering downtown Minneapolis and prompting office workers to seek shelter as sirens blared. Similarly, a tornado warning St Paul heightened alertness in the Twin Cities.[](https://www.fox9.com/weather/mn-weather-storms-tornado-may-15-2025)[](https://www.startribune.com/tornado-watch-issued-across-central-minnesota-into-wisconsin/601354622)
In Wisconsin, significant damage was reported around Juneau and Mayville, with a confirmed Wisconsin tornado near Mayville causing power outages and snapping utility poles. The NWS also reported a potential tornado Wisconsin in New Richmond, described as rope-like by storm spotters. Meanwhile, tornado warning Chicago alerts were issued as the city faced a Level 3 severe weather threat, with a 10% chance of strong tornadoes.[](https://www.foxweather.com/weather-news/chicago-milwaukee-midwest-severe-weather-tornadoes-hail-wind-may-2025)[](https://www.fox32chicago.com/weather/live-update-record-heat-dangerous-storms-threaten-chicago-area-thursday)[](https://www.indiatoday.in/world/story/tornado-warning-issued-for-minnesota-wisconsin-chicago-braces-for-severe-storms-glbs-2725543-2025-05-16)
Other areas, such as Madison weather and Milwaukee weather, were under scrutiny as storms moved eastward. TMJ4 Weather reported that severe storms were expected to hit Metro Milwaukee by early evening, with a tornado watch Wisconsin in effect until 10 p.m. CDT.[](https://www.tmj4.com/weather/forecast/todays-forecast/southeast-wisconsin-weather-morning-fog-severe-storms-possible-in-the-afternoon)
The Role of the National Weather Service and Storm Prediction Center
The NWS and SPC play critical roles in monitoring and forecasting severe weather. The SPC, based in Norman, Oklahoma, issues severe weather outlooks that categorize risks on a scale from 1 to 5. On May 15, over 23 million people, including those in Minneapolis, Chicago, and Milwaukee, were placed under a Level 3 enhanced risk for severe thunderstorms, indicating a significant threat of tornadoes, hail, and wind.[](https://www.fox32chicago.com/weather/live-update-record-heat-dangerous-storms-threaten-chicago-area-thursday)
The NWS uses advanced tools like Doppler radar to detect potential tornadoes, issuing timely warnings to protect lives. For example, a Minneapolis tornado warning was triggered by radar-indicated rotation, while a tornado warning Minnesota near Melrose was based on a storm spotter’s report. These alerts are disseminated through local media, including WCCO Weather and KSTP Weather, ensuring residents stay informed.[](https://www.fox9.com/weather/mn-weather-storms-tornado-may-15-2025)
Impact on Major Cities
Minneapolis: The Minneapolis weather was particularly volatile on Thursday, with a tornado Minneapolis threat prompting a 40-minute ground stop at Minneapolis–St. Paul International Airport. The Star Tribune reported that a funnel cloud was spotted in Benson, Minnesota, heightening concerns about a potential Minnesota tornado.[](https://www.startribune.com/tornado-watch-issued-across-central-minnesota-into-wisconsin/601354622)[](https://x.com/Ginger_Zee/status/1923080658949226801)
Chicago: Chicago faced record-breaking heat, reaching 93 degrees, which fueled severe thunderstorms. A tornado warning Chicago was issued, and a concert at Soldier Field was delayed due to the weather. The Weather Channel noted that the city was under a Level 3 risk, with potential for baseball-sized hail.[](https://chicago.suntimes.com/weather/2025/05/15/severe-weather-amid-record-breaking-heat-could-be-on-tap-for-chicago-area)[](https://www.fox32chicago.com/weather/live-update-record-heat-dangerous-storms-threaten-chicago-area-thursday)
Milwaukee: Milwaukee weather conditions deteriorated as storms approached, with tornado warning Wisconsin alerts for Dodge and Fond du Lac counties. TMJ4 Weather emphasized the risk of a brief tornado along the lake breeze boundary.[](https://www.fox6now.com/weather/wisconsin-tornado-warning-thursday-051525)
Safety Measures During a Tornado Watch
During a tornado watch, preparation is key. The NWS recommends the following steps:
- Stay Informed: Monitor Weather.com, Fox 9 News, or a NOAA Weather Radio for updates.
- Prepare a Safe Space:Â Identify a basement or an interior room on the lowest floor, away from windows, as a shelter.
- Have a Plan: Ensure your family knows where to go and how to stay safe during a tornado warning.
- Check Supplies:Â Keep essentials like water, food, and a flashlight in your safe space.
If a tornado warning is issued, take immediate action by moving to your designated shelter and avoiding windows. The NWS advises against waiting to see or hear a tornado, especially at night when visibility is low.[](https://www.newsobserver.com/news/weather-news/article306283911.html)
Historical Context of Tornadoes in the Midwest
The Midwest, often referred to as “Tornado Alley,” is prone to tornadoes due to its unique geography, where warm, moist air from the Gulf of Mexico collides with cool, dry air from the Rockies. Minnesota and Wisconsin have seen significant tornado activity in recent years. For example, a 2010 Minneapolis tornado caused widespread damage, and a 2011 Wisconsin tornado outbreak affected multiple counties.[](https://www.mprnews.org/story/2025/05/15/updates-weather-severe-storm-tornado-minnesota)
In 2025 Hawkins, a tornado MN event in 2010 remains one of the most notable, with 48 tornadoes touching down across the state in a single day. The Star Tribune has documented how climate change may be intensifying these events, increasing the frequency of severe weather in the region.
Technological Advances in Weather Forecasting
Advancements in weather radar Minneapolis and other technologies have improved tornado detection. The NWS’s WSR-88D Doppler radar, used nationwide, can detect rotation within storms, enabling faster issuance of warnings. The SPC also employs satellite imagery and computer models to predict severe weather outlooks days in advance, giving residents more time to prepare.[](https://www.yahoo.com/news/thunderstorm-season-begun-whats-difference-211112689.html)
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Local media outlets, such as WCCO Weather and KSTP Weather, leverage these tools to provide real-time updates. For example, Fox 9 News streamed live coverage of the May 15 storms, helping residents track the tornado watch MN.[](https://x.com/TornadoWeather/status/1923099491424452978)
Community Response and Recovery
The severe weather event on May 15 prompted swift community responses. In Wisconsin, two shelters were opened for residents whose homes were damaged, and officials warned that power outages could last days. In Minnesota, the Minneapolis tornado warning led to temporary disruptions, but no major injuries were reported.[](https://www.foxweather.com/weather-news/chicago-milwaukee-midwest-severe-weather-tornadoes-hail-wind-may-2025)[](https://www.startribune.com/tornado-watch-issued-across-central-minnesota-into-wisconsin/601354622)
Community resilience is critical in tornado-prone areas. Organizations like the American Red Cross and local emergency management agencies provide resources for recovery, while residents are encouraged to report damage to the NWS to aid in tornado confirmation and research.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Severe Weather
As climate change alters weather patterns, the Midwest may face more frequent and intense weather storms tornadoes. The NWS and SPC continue to refine forecasting models to improve accuracy. Meanwhile, residents are urged to stay proactive by monitoring Weather.com and local sources like Fox 9 News for the latest tornado warning Minneapolis today updates.
By understanding what is a tornado watch and taking proactive steps, communities can mitigate the risks posed by severe weather. Whether you’re in Minneapolis, Milwaukee, or Chicago, staying informed and prepared is the best defense against the unpredictable nature of tornadoes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a tornado watch and a tornado warning?
A tornado watch indicates that conditions are favorable for tornadoes, while a tornado warning means a tornado has been sighted or detected by radar, requiring immediate action.
How can I stay informed during a tornado watch?
Monitor trusted sources like Weather.com, Fox 9 News, or a NOAA Weather Radio. Local outlets such as WCCO Weather and KSTP Weather also provide real-time updates.
What should I do if a tornado warning is issued?
Seek shelter in a basement or an interior room on the lowest floor, away from windows. Avoid waiting to see or hear the tornado, as they can be deadly.[](https://www.newsobserver.com/news/weather-news/article306283911.html)
Are tornadoes common in Minnesota and Wisconsin?
Yes, both states are part of Tornado Alley and experience tornadoes regularly, especially in spring and summer. Historical events like the 2010 Minneapolis tornado highlight the region’s vulnerability.
References and Further Reading
- National Weather Service: Tornado Safety
- Storm Prediction Center: Severe Weather Outlooks
- Weather.com: Tornado Preparedness
- Fox 9 News: Minnesota Weather Updates
- Star Tribune: Minnesota Tornado Coverage
