CHICAGO — Forecasters warned on Thursday that severe storms capable of producing strong tornadoes, large hail and damaging winds, along with the threat of additional flooding, could hit parts of the Upper Midwest again on Friday as the region grapples with ongoing saturation from earlier heavy rains.
The National Weather Service’s Storm Prediction Center placed portions of the Upper Midwest and Great Lakes under an enhanced risk of severe weather for Friday, including areas from northeast Iowa into central Wisconsin and extending into parts of Minnesota, Illinois and Michigan. Heavy rainfall associated with the storms raised the potential for scattered flash flooding in already water-logged areas.
The Upper Midwest has faced repeated rounds of severe weather and flooding in recent weeks. Earlier in April, rainfall totals of 3 to 6 inches across parts of the region led to river flooding, flash floods and isolated tornadoes. In Michigan and Wisconsin, rivers have overflowed after a month’s worth of rain fell in just days, prompting water rescues and emergency declarations. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer of Michigan declared a state of emergency for Cheboygan County due to rising water levels at the Cheboygan Dam.
The National Weather Service said rivers in Michigan and Wisconsin remained at elevated levels, with additional rain expected to exacerbate conditions. Forecasters highlighted the risk of localized flash flooding, particularly where soils are saturated.
A meteorologist with the Storm Prediction Center noted the potential for supercells to produce strong tornadoes before storms organize into lines capable of widespread damaging winds. Hourly rainfall rates of 1 to 2 inches were possible in some areas, increasing runoff risks.
Residents in affected areas were advised to monitor forecasts and prepare for possible severe weather, including having multiple ways to receive warnings. Schools in some communities have closed or adjusted schedules in recent storms due to power outages and flooding threats.
As of Friday morning, the exact timing and intensity of the storms remained subject to change, forecasters said. The situation was fluid, with the greatest risks expected Friday afternoon into Friday night. No immediate reports of new major damage or injuries from the anticipated storms were available early Friday. Officials urged caution as the region faced another round of potentially hazardous weather.
