Tornado Watch Issued for SE Wisconsin

All types of severe weather possible this evening across the region

Apr. 2, 2026 at 10:38pm

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A dramatic landscape painting in muted tones, with a massive, swirling storm system dominating the horizon and casting an ominous shadow over the surrounding countryside. The scene conveys a sense of the overwhelming power and sublime scale of the impending severe weather.As a powerful storm system approaches, the looming threat of tornadoes and other severe weather hangs over the Wisconsin landscape.Today in Milwaukee

The National Weather Service has issued a tornado watch for all of southeastern Wisconsin, as a strong storm system moves into the area. Meteorologists warn that the region could see a variety of severe weather threats, including tornadoes, damaging winds, and large hail, especially between 6 PM and 10 PM this evening.

Why it matters

Tornado watches are serious weather alerts that indicate conditions are favorable for tornado formation. Residents in the affected area should closely monitor the forecast and be prepared to take shelter if any warnings are issued. Severe storms can cause significant property damage and pose a threat to public safety.

The details

The tornado watch was issued by the National Weather Service and covers all of southeastern Wisconsin, including the Milwaukee metropolitan area. Meteorologists say the main threat window will be from around 6 PM to 10 PM as a warm front moves northward, bringing an influx of warm, moist air that will fuel the potential for severe storms. In addition to tornadoes, the storms could also produce damaging winds, large hail, and heavy rainfall.

  • The tornado watch is in effect until 8 PM this evening.
  • The greatest threat for severe weather is expected between 6 PM and 10 PM.

The players

National Weather Service

The federal agency responsible for issuing weather watches, warnings, and forecasts for the United States.

Mark Baden

A meteorologist who reported on the severe weather threat for WISN, the ABC affiliate in Milwaukee.

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What they’re saying

“All eyes are on our weather as they should be. It is an alert day because of the threat of a lot of different types of severe weather, including tornadoes.”

— Mark Baden, Meteorologist

“I really think that threat, 6 to 10 will be our biggest chance of severe weather, wind, hail and yes, tornadoes. Possible biggest threat in southern counties. But don't put your guard down. Severe weather is possible everywhere in southeastern Wisconsin.”

— Mark Baden, Meteorologist

What’s next

Residents in the affected area should continue to monitor the weather forecast and be prepared to take shelter if any tornado warnings are issued. The National Weather Service will be closely tracking the storm system and providing updates on the evolving severe weather threat.

The takeaway

This tornado watch highlights the importance of being weather-aware and having a plan in place to quickly get to a safe location in the event of severe storms. Residents should heed all weather warnings and be prepared to act quickly to protect themselves and their families.