Wisconsin First Alert Day: Heat and storm risk Sunday
Wisconsin is under a First Alert Weather Day Sunday as dangerous heat and humidity combine with a chance of severe thunderstorms. Heat indexes may near 100°F in central areas and up to 115 in western counties, while any storm that forms could bring damaging winds and large hail.
Forecasters across the state, including WSAW in Wausau, flagged Sunday for afternoon heat followed by strong to severe storms toward sunset. Madison-area outlooks also list Alert Days Sunday and Monday for dangerous heat and an isolated severe chance.
Key Takeaways
- Central Wisconsin faces a First Alert Weather Day Sunday for heat and storm potential.
- Western counties are under an extreme heat warning with heat indexes up to 115.
- Isolated severe storms may produce damaging winds and large hail Sunday into Monday.
- Eastern Wisconsin, from Wisconsin Dells to Milwaukee, is under a heat advisory.
Why is Sunday a First Alert Weather Day?
WSAW said a First Alert Weather Day covers all of central Wisconsin Sunday. Dangerous heat is expected in the afternoon and evening, with strong storms possible later.
Temperatures are forecast to rise into the low 90s, with afternoon heat index values in the mid 90s to around 100°. Channel 3000 similarly warned that feels-like temperatures could reach the low 100s Sunday and Monday.
Where is the heat warning most severe?
The National Weather Service issued an extreme heat warning for many western Wisconsin counties, including Eau Claire and La Crosse, the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reported. Heat indexes there could reach up to 115, raising the risk of heat-related illness.
The eastern half of the state, from Wisconsin Dells to Milwaukee, is under a heat advisory with heat index values of 100 to 103 degrees expected. A National Weather Service meteorologist said the warning is very unlikely to expand into southeast Wisconsin because clouds should keep temperatures lower.
What storm threats should people watch for?
If storms develop Sunday afternoon and evening, WSAW said the main threats are damaging winds, large hail, and downpours. Channel 3000 noted strong wind gusts and large hail as the greatest risks for isolated severe weather Sunday and Monday.
Heat may delay storms until later Sunday evening or overnight into Monday. Forecasters also noted storms might not form at all if a warm-air cap holds. Monday remains hot and humid with another severe chance as a cold front approaches.
Stay hydrated, limit outdoor time for people and pets, and monitor local alerts. Follow ongoing coverage in our Future Tech & AI Wonders hub as conditions evolve.