Stay Alert: Five Potential Rounds of Severe Storms

For Immediate Release
June 9, 2026

The National Weather Service is forecasting multiple rounds of severe thunderstorms from early Wednesday morning through Thursday evening. Depending on how the forecast evolves, there are multiple opportunities where strong winds, hail, and tornadoes could develop in the Madison area.

Please know, when a storm is producing 80+ mph winds or baseball-sized hail, the National Weather Service may add a "destructive tag " to its Severe Thunderstorm Warnings. This will trigger outdoor warning sirens and text alerts to your cell phone.

Additionally, hot temperatures are predicted on Wednesday, which may trigger a Heat Advisory. There is also chance for localized flash flooding starting Wednesday evening through Thursday evening.

The City of Madison cautions against being complacent. Don't ignore weather alerts. If a tornado or severe thunderstorm warning with the "destructive" tag is issued for your area, head to a safe shelter as quickly as possible.

The Current Forecast

What's unique about this storm pattern is that there are several rounds of severe weather possible over 48 hours. The exact timing, location, and severity of storms could change. That's why it's important to continue to stay vigilant and informed.

Round 1: Early Wednesday

Starting around midnight, scattered storms may produce gusty winds and large hail.

Round 2: Mid-Day Wednesday into Wednesday Afternoon

A line of severe storms will move eastward with the potential for strong winds, hail, and tornadoes.

Round 3: Wednesday Night

Severe storms are possible and may produce a flood risk. However, the National Weather Service has lower confidence in this predication so please pay attention to forecast updates.

Round 4 & 5: Thursday Morning & Afternoon

An additional round or two of storms is expected but the location and timing could change. If these storms hit, there is a potential for flooding because of the cumulative effect of rainfall.

How to Be Prepared

For the latest weather updates, residents should pay attention to local TV weather coverage or weather radios. Additionally, pay attention to emergency sirens and phone alerts. We also encourage residents to sign up for Dane County's Emergency Notification System, which can send alerts to your email and phone when a warning is issued.

Sign up for Emergency Alerts

Know where to go in the event of a severe thunderstorm or tornado warning:

• In a home or building, the safest places are typically interior rooms (no windows) on the lowest floor, ideally a basement. Stay away from windows and walls connected to the outside. If you have a table or stairs you can go under, use those for extra protection.

• If you live an apartment, check to see if there is a designated storm shelter in your basement or an underground parking ramp. The safest location is still the and interior room on the lowest level of the building you can reach.

• If you live in a mobile or modular home, those structures are not considered safe during a tornado or severe storm. See if your area has a designated storm shelter. If one is not available, make plans to stay with someone with access to a safe shelter until the severe weather threat has passed, if possible.

Additionally, please make sure your phone and other battery-powered devices are fully charged in case there are power outages. Your local library is a good place to charge your phone if you are ever experiencing prolonged power outages.

Library Locations

It's also a good idea to have a Go Kit prepared with essential items you and your household would need during an emergency. These might include flashlights, batteries, snacks, medications, phone chargers, and bottled water. Remember to include food and supplies for your pets. It's a best practice to have three days' worth supplies ready no matter the situation.

More Emergency Preparedness Info

Stay Safe During Extreme Heat

Stay Cool

• Stay in air-conditioned buildings if possible. If you need a cool place to stay, public places such as local senior and community centers, libraries, and malls are good options. Call ahead to confirm their hours.
• Limit outdoor activity, especially midday, which is usually the hottest part of the day, and avoid direct sunlight.
• Wear loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing.
• Never sit in a parked car or leave a person or pet in a parked car.

Stay Hydrated

• Drink more water than usual and don't wait until you're thirsty to drink.
• Drink from two to four cups of water every hour while working or exercising outside.
• Avoid alcohol and liquids containing high amounts of sugar.
• Make sure your family and pets are drinking enough water.

Stay Connected

• Check your local news for extreme heat warnings and safety tips.
• Regularly check on friends, loved ones, and neighbors. Call, text, visit in person, or do a video call.

Stay aware about your own situation as well as what's going on around you. If you start feeling overheated, weak, dizzy, nauseated, or have muscle cramps, you could be experiencing heat illness. Move to air conditioning, drink water, get under a fan, and put on cool washcloths. If your symptoms worsen or don't improve, go to the emergency room.

Additional Resources

Information about Flooding

Report Flooding

Report Storm Damage to Street Trees

As always, please remember to check in with neighbors or loved ones that might need help during severe weather events. Be safe!