Tornado Warning Issued in Wisconsin: Residents Urged to Seek Shelter

Severe Weather Alert in Wisconsin

A tornado has been confirmed in parts of Wisconsin, prompting the National Weather Service to issue a Tornado Warning for southwestern Juneau County, effective until 6:00 PM CDT. As of 5:49 PM CDT, the tornado was reported near Elroy, close to Mauston, and was moving eastward at a speed of 35 mph. This storm presents a serious threat, with potential hazards including a damaging tornado and hail reaching half-dollar size.

The warning indicates that the tornado is expected to approach Mauston around 5:55 PM CDT. Other areas that may be affected include Lindina, Lemonweir, Pleasant Ridge, Mullin Ridge, and the Bass Hollow Recreation Area. Additionally, a segment of Interstate 90/94 between mile markers 67 and 72 is also under threat.

The NWS has declared a Particularly Dangerous Situation (PDS) tornado warning for Mauston, Elroy, Union Center, and Wonewoc in Juneau County. Officials caution that flying debris poses a significant danger to anyone without adequate shelter. Mobile homes are particularly vulnerable to destruction, while houses, vehicles, and trees may sustain severe damage. Heavy rainfall could also obscure visibility of the tornado.

Residents in the affected areas are strongly advised to seek immediate shelter in a basement or an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building, avoiding windows. Those who are outdoors, in vehicles, or in mobile homes should quickly move to the nearest substantial shelter to protect themselves from flying debris.