Severe Thunderstorm Warning in Effect
The National Weather Service has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning for Big Stone County, Minnesota, Traverse County, Minnesota, and Roberts County, South Dakota as a dangerous thunderstorm moves across the region.
Residents should prepare for wind gusts up to 60 MPH and hail up to 1.00 inch in diameter (quarter-size). These storms are capable of producing damaging winds, isolated tree damage, power outages, and hazardous travel conditions.
Expected Hazards
The strongest storms may produce:
- Wind gusts up to 60 MPH
- Hail up to 1.00 inch in diameter
- Frequent cloud-to-ground lightning
- Heavy rainfall reducing visibility
- Minor flooding in poor drainage areas
- Downed tree limbs and scattered power outages
Even storms that do not produce tornadoes can become dangerous very quickly. Damaging straight-line winds are capable of causing significant damage to trees, roofs, fences, and utility lines.
Areas Included in the Warning
The warning includes:
- Big Stone County, Minnesota
- Traverse County, Minnesota
- Roberts County, South Dakota
Communities throughout these counties should closely monitor weather conditions and be prepared to take shelter immediately if conditions worsen.
How to Prepare Before the Storm Arrives
Now is the time to complete any outdoor activities and move inside.
Preparation steps include:
- Secure patio furniture, grills, trash cans, and other loose outdoor items.
- Park vehicles inside a garage or under sturdy shelter to reduce hail damage.
- Charge cell phones, battery packs, and essential electronics.
- Have multiple ways to receive weather warnings, including NOAA Weather Radio and mobile weather alerts.
- Prepare emergency supplies such as flashlights, batteries, bottled water, medications, and a first aid kit.
Severe Thunderstorm Safety Tips
When a Severe Thunderstorm Warning is issued:
- Move indoors immediately to a sturdy building.
- Stay away from windows and glass doors.
- Avoid using corded electrical appliances during intense lightning.
- If driving, never stop beneath trees or power lines. If possible, safely pull over until the storm passes.
- Keep pets indoors and ensure they have access to shelter.
Remember, lightning can strike several miles away from the storm itself. If you hear thunder, move indoors immediately.
Potential Impacts
Strong thunderstorms producing 60 MPH winds can:
- Break large tree branches
- Damage roofs and siding
- Blow around unsecured outdoor objects
- Cause localized power outages
- Produce hazardous driving conditions due to heavy rain and hail
Quarter-size hail can also dent vehicles, damage crops, and shatter vulnerable windows.
Stay Weather Aware
Storm conditions can change rapidly. Continue monitoring forecasts, local emergency management, and official National Weather Service updates throughout the warning period.
Radar Watch HQ will continue providing updates as new weather information becomes available. Stay alert, have your emergency plan ready, and never underestimate the dangers associated with severe thunderstorms.
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Radar Watch HQ Top 5 Essential Emergency Preparedness Picks
Whether you’re preparing for severe thunderstorms, flash flooding, hurricanes, wildfires, or extended power outages, these five emergency essentials can help keep your household safer when severe weather strikes.
A portable power station provides reliable backup electricity during outages, allowing you to power phones, medical devices, laptops, lights, small appliances, and communication equipment without fuel.
Best for:
- Extended power outages
- Severe thunderstorms
- Hurricanes
- Winter storms
- Wildfires
2. Flood Protection Barriers & Sandless Flood Bags
Flood barriers help divert or absorb water before it enters garages, doorways, and low-lying areas. They deploy quickly and can help reduce property damage during flash flooding.
Best for:
- Flash Flood Warnings
- Heavy rainfall
- River flooding
- Coastal flooding
3. Rechargeable LED Flashlights
Bright, dependable flashlights are essential when the power goes out. Rechargeable or solar-powered models provide long-lasting illumination for navigating safely indoors and outdoors.
Best for:
- Overnight power outages
- Emergency evacuations
- Storm damage inspections
Keep phones, tablets, weather radios, and USB-powered devices charged when the electrical grid is unavailable. A solar power bank offers an additional charging option during prolonged emergencies.
Best for:
- Communication during outages
- Emergency weather alerts
- Travel and evacuation
A NOAA Weather Radio delivers official weather alerts directly from the National Weather Service, even when cellular networks or internet service are unavailable. It remains one of the most dependable ways to receive life-saving warnings.
Best for:
- Tornado warnings
- Severe thunderstorm warnings
- Flash flood warnings
- Hurricane alerts
- Winter storm emergencies
Why Radar Watch HQ Recommends These Essentials
At Radar Watch HQ, preparedness is just as important as staying informed. These five emergency essentials can help you stay connected, protect your property, and safely navigate severe weather events. Having supplies ready before storms arrive allows you to respond quickly when warnings are issued and conditions begin to deteriorate.
