Wisconsin Governor Declares State of Emergency After Tornadoes

Multiple confirmed twisters cause damage across the state as severe weather continues.

Apr. 15, 2026 at 10:42pm

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A vast, majestic landscape painting depicting a tornado-ravaged rural scene shrouded in ominous, swirling storm clouds, conveying the overwhelming, sublime scale of the natural disaster.A powerful tornado outbreak leaves a trail of destruction across the Wisconsin countryside, underscoring the state's vulnerability to the growing threat of severe weather.Madison Today

Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers has declared a state of emergency after severe thunderstorms spawned multiple confirmed tornadoes across the state on April 14. The governor is surveying damage and coordinating emergency response efforts as the threat for additional severe weather continues over the next few days.

Why it matters

Tornado outbreaks can cause significant property damage, disrupt critical infrastructure, and threaten public safety. Governor Evers' declaration will help mobilize state resources and aid local communities as they respond to the aftermath of these storms and prepare for any additional severe weather.

The details

At least four tornadoes have been confirmed by the National Weather Service, touching down in Waukesha, Walworth, Marquette, and Dodge Counties. Survey teams are also assessing damage in Racine and Kenosha Counties. The governor has joined emergency management officials to survey the destruction in the Juneau County community of Union Center, with plans to visit other affected areas on April 16.

  • On April 14, multiple tornadoes touched down across Wisconsin.
  • Governor Evers declared a state of emergency on April 15.
  • The governor is touring damage locations on April 15 and 16.

The players

Tony Evers

The Governor of Wisconsin who declared a state of emergency in response to the severe storms and tornado damage.

National Weather Service

The federal agency that confirmed the touchdown of at least four tornadoes across the state.

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What they’re saying

“'After severe storms that swept across the state and more still to come, it is critical that we ensure our communities have access to every available resource to help local folks and families in need and secure essential infrastructure.'”

— Tony Evers, Governor of Wisconsin

“'We are grateful to all of the neighbors, emergency and first responders, local partners, and volunteers, who are already working to support each other, respond to damages, restore essential services, and ensure that homes, buildings, and other important structures are as secure as we prepare for more severe weather to come.'”

— Tony Evers, Governor of Wisconsin

What’s next

Governor Evers will continue touring damage locations on April 16 as the state coordinates emergency response and prepares for additional severe weather in the coming days.

The takeaway

This tornado outbreak highlights the importance of emergency preparedness and community resilience in the face of extreme weather events. The governor's declaration will help mobilize resources to support affected communities as they recover and brace for any further storms.