Severe Storm Watch: Milwaukee & SE Wisconsin in the Crosshairs
Severe Thunderstorm Watch Issued for Milwaukee and Southeast Wisconsin on Election Day
What’s Happening Right Now?
A Severe Thunderstorm Watch is in effect for a large part of southern Wisconsin — including Milwaukee, Waukesha, Racine, and Kenosha counties. This means conditions are right for strong storms to develop, but they haven’t necessarily started yet in your exact neighborhood.
Important Point: A Watch means "be prepared." A Warning means "take action now!" Right now, we’re at the Watch stage.
Key Details You Need to Know
Timing
- Watch issued: 7:20 AM Tuesday (Election Day)
- Expires: 2:00 PM Tuesday
- Storms most likely: Late morning through early afternoon
Counties Included
The watch covers 15 counties:
- Crawford
- Dane
- Grant
- Green
- Iowa
- Jefferson
- Kenosha
- Lafayette
- Milwaukee
- Racine
- Richland
- Rock
- Sauk
- Walworth
- Waukesha
Main Threats
| Threat | What It Means for You |
|---|---|
| Damaging Winds | Gusts strong enough to knock down tree limbs, damage roofs, or blow around unsecured objects |
| Heavy Rain | Rain falling fast enough to reduce visibility and make roads slick |
| Localized Flooding | Water pooling on roads, in low-lying areas, or near storm drains — never drive through standing water! |
Highest Risk Area
The greatest chance of severe weather is south of I-94, especially in counties right along the Illinois state line (Kenosha, Racine, Walworth).
If You’re Heading to Vote Today
Good news! There will be dry windows — breaks in the rain — so you can still make it to the polls safely.
Suggested Plan:
- Check the radar before you leave (weather app or 12 News)
- Go during a dry stretch — early morning or after the main storm line passes
- Allow extra travel time — roads may be wet, traffic slower
- Bring a rain jacket or umbrella — just in case
- Stay alert for warnings — if a Warning is issued for your area, seek shelter immediately
Rest of the Day Forecast
- Temperature: Highs around 80°F — unusually warm for November!
- Humidity: High — it’ll feel muggy and sticky
- After storms pass: Skies should gradually clear, but stay warm
How to Stay Safe: Step-by-Step
- Keep your phone charged and alerts turned on
- Download a weather app with push notifications (like the 12 News app)
- Secure outdoor items — patio furniture, trash cans, decorations
- Avoid unnecessary travel during the peak storm window (10 AM – 1 PM)
- If a Warning is issued for your location:
- Go indoors immediately
- Stay away from windows
- Get to an interior room on the lowest floor
- Never drive through flooded roads — turn around, don’t drown!
- Check on neighbors — especially elderly or vulnerable folks
Summary
| What | Details |
|---|---|
| Alert Type | Severe Thunderstorm Watch |
| When | 7:20 AM – 2:00 PM Tuesday (Election Day) |
| Where | 15 SE Wisconsin counties, including Milwaukee, Waukesha, Racine, Kenosha |
| Main Risks | Damaging winds, heavy rain, localized flooding |
| Highest Risk | South of I-94, near Illinois border |
| Voting Impact | Dry periods available — plan around storms |
| Temp | ~80°F, warm & humid |
| Stay Updated | 12 News app, weather radio, local alerts |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What’s the difference between a Watch and a Warning?
A Watch means conditions are favorable for severe weather — stay alert. A Warning means severe weather is happening or imminent — take shelter immediately.
Should I still go vote?
Yes! There are dry windows before and after the storms. Check radar, go during a break, and allow extra time. Your vote matters!
What if I’m driving when a storm hits?
Pull off the road safely (not under trees or power lines), turn on hazard lights, and wait it out. Never drive through standing water — even 6 inches can sweep a car away.
How will I know if a Warning is issued for my exact location?
Enable Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) on your phone, use a weather app with location-based push alerts, or keep a NOAA weather radio nearby.
Will schools or polling places close?
As of now, no widespread closures are announced. Check your local school district or municipal clerk’s website for updates. Polling places have contingency plans for weather.
Stay safe, stay dry, and don’t forget to vote!
12 News will keep tracking the storms all day. Check back for updates.