Severe Thunderstorm Watch Issued for Southeast Wisconsin Amid Storms Forecast

MILWAUKEE, Wis. — The National Weather Service has issued a severe thunderstorm watch for southeast Wisconsin, effective until 11 a.m. Friday, April 18, impacting Jefferson, Washington, Ozaukee, Racine, Walworth, Milwaukee, Waukesha, Dodge, and Kenosha counties.

Storm Team 4 meteorologists are tracking a cluster of thunderstorms moving from the west, expected to bring rain and thunderstorms across southern Wisconsin early Friday morning. A warning is currently in effect until 8:15 a.m. for several counties, including Dodge, Walworth, Washington, Jefferson, Ozaukee, Waukesha, and Milwaukee. These storms have the potential to be strong, producing large hail and gusty winds.

Temperatures on Friday are forecasted to reach the 70s in some areas, depending on cloud cover and storm development. “If we can get some clearing skies, temperatures will rise further, but it may also lead to storms redeveloping in the evening,” said a meteorologist. However, if early morning storms occur, they may reduce the chances of stronger storms later in the day.

Looking ahead to the weekend, forecasters predict a cooler trend with Saturday’s highs in the lower 50s. With a front stalled to the south, many will see filtered sunshine. On Easter Sunday, dry conditions are expected to start the day, but rain chances will increase heading into the afternoon and overnight hours.

For Friday, conditions will stir a Level 1 Marginal Risk for severe weather across western Wisconsin, elevating to a Level 2 Slight Risk for southeastern counties. The primary threats include gusty winds and hail, with an isolated tornado risk particularly for Friday afternoon, as a cold front approaches.

Everybody is urged to remain vigilant as rainfall amounts are projected to remain relatively mild, averaging between 0.25 to 0.50 inches. However, localized areas that experience significant storms could see totals reaching an inch or more.

Local residents can stay updated on storm developments by downloading the CBS 58 Weather app or visiting FOX6Now.com for the latest updates and resources.

Weather patterns are expected to stay active as southern Wisconsin shifts into a period of milder temperatures next week, with periodic chances for rain continuing.