Severe Storms with 60-70 mph Winds Possible in La Crosse, WI Today

Thunderstorms could bring large hail, heavy rain, and a brief tornado risk to the region this afternoon and evening.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 9:18am

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A sweeping, atmospheric landscape painting depicting a turbulent, stormy sky over a flat, desolate plain, conveying the overwhelming scale and power of an approaching severe weather system.As a severe thunderstorm system approaches, the vast, open landscape of western Wisconsin braces for the imminent arrival of powerful winds, heavy rain, and the potential for dangerous hail and tornadoes.La Crosse Today

The National Weather Service is warning of the potential for severe thunderstorms to develop across western Wisconsin this afternoon and evening, with La Crosse and surrounding areas at risk for damaging winds up to 70 mph, large hail, and heavy rainfall that could lead to ponding on roads and minor flooding.

Why it matters

Severe weather can pose a serious threat to public safety, disrupt travel, and cause property damage, so residents in the La Crosse area need to be prepared to take shelter if storms intensify as forecasted.

The details

The storms are expected to develop by mid-afternoon west of La Crosse and then spread eastward toward the Mississippi River and into downtown areas by the evening hours. Roads along major highways like U.S. 53 and I-90 could become hazardous due to sudden downpours that reduce visibility.

  • Storms will begin developing by mid-afternoon, first west of La Crosse.
  • Storms will spread toward the Mississippi River and into downtown La Crosse by the evening hours.
  • Rain chances remain elevated into Tuesday, with scattered storms continuing through the day and into the evening.
  • Showers become more widespread again on Wednesday, with rain chances climbing as high as 70 percent.
  • Another round of showers and storms is expected to return on Friday and continue into the weekend.

The players

National Weather Service

The federal agency responsible for weather forecasting and issuing severe weather alerts.

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What they’re saying

“A line of storms is expected to develop this afternoon and push east across western Wisconsin, with large hail near 2 inches, wind gusts up to 70 mph, and heavy rainfall as the primary threats. A brief tornado cannot be ruled out if storms intensify quickly.”

— National Weather Service

What’s next

Residents in the La Crosse area should monitor the weather closely and be prepared to take shelter if severe storms develop as forecasted.

The takeaway

This severe weather event highlights the importance of staying vigilant and having a plan in place to protect yourself and your property when dangerous storms are on the horizon, especially in a region prone to sudden and intense thunderstorms.