The Northern Great Lakes Will See A Round of Severe Weather Today

The northern Great Lakes will see thunderstorms impact the region today. Damaging winds, large hail and even a few tornadoes are the main threats from these thunderstorms.

The Storm Prediction Center has placed a Slight Risk area for these threats, with the cities of Buffalo and Syracuse, N.Y., in this risk area. 

A Severe Thunderstorm Watch has been issued for parts of northern Wisconsin.

As a large and strong ridge of high pressure builds over the Mississippi Valley, a disturbance will ride over the top of this feature and feed off the difference in airmases (hot and humid to its south and cooler and drier to the north). As a result, showers and thunderstorms will strengthen with the heating of the day and the strong near-summer solstice sunshine.  

Make sure to know the difference between a watch and a warning should they become issued. A “watch” means that conditions are favorable for severe weather to occur and to be on alert for any rapidly changing conditions. A “warning” means that severe weather is imminent, and you should act fast to remain safe.

The best way to remain safe is to stay prepared and informed about your local weather. Have a severe weather kit packed with a battery-operated radio, water, and non-perishable food items should you be without power for long periods of time. Also, check the WeatherBug app frequently for any updates on today's severe weather. Remember, "When Thunder Roars, Go Indoors!"