Minnesota and Wisconsin:: A tornado watch was issued for parts of central Minnesota and western Wisconsin until 8 p.m. CDT on May 15, 2025. The storms could bring tornadoes, large hail, and wind gusts up to 70 mph.
South Carolina:: A tornado warning for Abbeville County, South Carolina, expired at 8 p.m. EDT on May 12, 2025. Tornado warnings are issued when a tornado is indicated by radar or sighted by weather spotters, prompting immediate shelter.
Why this matters:: Understanding the difference between a tornado watch and a tornado warning is crucial for personal safety. A watch means conditions are favorable for tornadoes, while a warning means a tornado has been sighted or indicated by radar.
On May 15, 2025, much of central Minnesota and western Wisconsin were under a tornado watch, indicating potential severe weather conditions. The storms were expected to develop in the afternoon, bringing risks of tornadoes, large hail (1-2 inches), and strong wind gusts (up to 60-70 mph). The highest risk area was western Wisconsin, extending into the northern part of the I-35 corridor.
Earlier in the week, on May 12, 2025, Abbeville County, South Carolina, was under a tornado warning. This warning, which expired at 8 p.m. EDT, underscored the immediate threat of a tornado, requiring residents to seek shelter.
The National Weather Service (NWS) issues tornado watches when conditions are favorable for tornado development, typically for a duration of four to eight hours. Tornado warnings, on the other hand, are issued for about 30 minutes when a tornado is imminent or occurring.
Q: What is the difference between a tornado watch and a tornado warning?
A tornado watch means conditions are favorable for the development of tornadoes, while a tornado warning means a tornado has been sighted or indicated by radar.
Q: What should I do if a tornado warning is issued for my area?
Seek shelter immediately. Go to a basement, storm cellar, or an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building.
Stay Informed: Monitor weather updates from reliable sources such as the National Weather Service and local news channels.
Understand the Risks: Know the difference between a tornado watch and a tornado warning and take appropriate action.
Prepare a Safety Plan: Have a designated shelter and a plan for what to do in case of a tornado.
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