On Thursday, April 14, 2026, the National Weather Service released tornado warnings as witnesses observed the development of a large, intense tornado southwest of Mankato, MN, around 2 p.m. CDT.
The tornado sighting in Minnesota and Wisconsin suggested that the following days would bring extreme weather conditions throughout the Midwest region.
A multi-vortex tornado north of Truman was recorded live by residents, causing people to seek shelter immediately in the counties of Blue Earth and Nicollet, with rotation detected by radars advancing eastward at 35 mph.
No fatalities were recorded at first, with officials stating that winds could reach up to 80 mph and flash floods occurred until Wednesday evening.
Tornado Warning Issued in Minnesota & Wisconsin After Powerful Sighting
The intense tornado that struck Minnesota farmland around Mankato on April 14 led to an unusual “especially dangerous situation” warning from NWS Twin Cities for Minnesota and southeastern Wisconsin until 7 p.m.
The narrow twister, which had been confirmed by skilled spotters and storm chasers, was over half a mile wide, with several vortices spinning up dirt and debris into the atmosphere.
Local sirens were ringing on all phones in the region, advising people to take immediate refuge underground.
Outages were already reported at 5,000 homes, and storm chasers captured videos of the monster traversing Interstate 90.
Meteorologists monitored other supercells developing further rotation risks in Wisconsin’s driftless area tonight.
Dangerous Week of Storms Ahead for Midwest
Tornado warning sets stage for dangerous severe weather threat from April 14th - 18th, with the SPC at NOAA assigning areas of Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, and Illinois an enhanced risk of level 3 of 5 for long track tornadoes.
Interaction between warm Gulf air masses with cold air masses sets ideal conditions for spawning EF2 and higher tornadoes with wind speeds exceeding 111mph.
Last week’s Arkansas tornados, which killed four people, called for preparedness amongst the residents nearby.
FEMA encourages Midwestern families to put together emergency packs with food and protective gear as storms intensify in the evening.
Check: Tornado and Flash Flood Warning Issued for Cleveland
Tornado Safety Tips During Minnesota & Wisconsin Warnings
During the tornado warnings alarm sounds, take shelter and precautions to increase the chances of survival.
People should move into enclosed ground floor spaces, far from any windows, with protective coverings such as pillows or helmets placed over their heads to protect from debris, which is the primary cause of deaths due to twisters.
People who live in mobile homes have the greatest risk, so find safe spaces within the vicinity, such as strong structures or trenches, but never inside cars.
Get the FEMA or American Red Cross app for immediate updates on radar systems and shelters.
Read: Tornado Warning Issued for Oklahoma and Illinois
Conclusion
Tornado warnings from Minnesota and Wisconsin mark the start of a week that will be stormy, and one must remain alert to avoid danger, yet by following the advice and staying informed, families stay safe amidst the peril.
