Severe Storms and Tornadoes Damage Midwest Communities

Authorities report injuries and structural damage across Kansas, Minnesota, and Wisconsin.

Apr. 14, 2026 at 6:34pm

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A vast, atmospheric landscape painting depicting a tornado-ravaged Midwestern countryside, with the remaining structures and objects dwarfed by the overwhelming force of the storm. The scene conveys the sublime scale and power of the natural disaster through the use of deep perspective and dramatic lighting.The aftermath of a devastating tornado outbreak serves as a sobering reminder of the raw power of nature and the need for continued vigilance and preparedness in Midwest communities.La Crosse Today

A series of severe storms and tornadoes swept through the Plains and Midwest regions on Monday, leaving a trail of damage and minor injuries in several communities. Authorities in Kansas reported several people with minor injuries, while three people were left with minor injuries in rural Franklin County. In Ottawa, Kansas, officials said there was structural damage, but no deaths or major injuries. Similar reports of damage and minor injuries came from neighboring counties and states, including Minnesota and Wisconsin.

Why it matters

Extreme weather events like these severe storms and tornadoes can have significant impacts on local communities, causing property damage, disrupting power and infrastructure, and putting residents at risk. Understanding the scope and severity of these incidents is important for emergency response, disaster recovery efforts, and ongoing discussions about climate change and its effects.

The details

The storms caused a range of damage, including downed power lines, damaged businesses, and overturned recreational vehicles and campers. A National Weather Service survey team will assess the damage in Ottawa, Kansas, to determine if a tornado passed through the area. In Minnesota, three tornadoes touched down, causing some damage to farms, and there were also reports of baseball-sized hail. In Wisconsin, a tornado touched down near the village of Gilman, causing minor damage, and the roof of a manufactured home was peeled off in the village of Steuben.

  • The severe storms and tornadoes occurred on Monday, April 14, 2026.
  • Forecasters warned that additional storms could bring more damage to the region on Tuesday afternoon and evening.

The players

Chelsea Picha

A meteorologist with the National Weather Service's office in Topeka, Kansas.

Jake Beitlich

A meteorologist in the National Weather Service's Twin Cities office.

Jeff Boyne

A meteorologist in the National Weather Service's La Crosse, Wisconsin office.

Gretchen Whitmer

The governor of Michigan, who declared a state of emergency at the Cheboygan Lock and Dam Complex due to elevated water levels.

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What they’re saying

“A National Weather Service survey team will assess damage in the Ottawa area on Tuesday to determine whether a tornado passed through there.”

— Chelsea Picha, Meteorologist

What’s next

The National Weather Service will continue to monitor the situation and assess the damage caused by the severe storms and tornadoes. Authorities will work to restore power and infrastructure, and provide support to affected communities.

The takeaway

This severe weather event highlights the ongoing threat of extreme storms and tornadoes in the Midwest, and the importance of preparedness, emergency response, and long-term resilience planning to protect local communities.