The 2024 Republican National Convention kicks off Monday in Milwaukee, and with it comes extreme weather.
With temperatures in the high 80s, leading to more than a dozen heat-related calls around the venue, severe weather is now sweeping the area. Milwaukee's high reached 89 degrees, with a record heat index of 95.
The National Weather Service issued a tornado warning for parts of southern Wisconsin, including Janesville, Albany and Footville. A severe thunderstorm warning is in effect for that part of the state until 8:15 p.m.
Will it rain or storm again in Milwaukee tonight?
Showers and thunderstorms are possible between 7pm and midnight, with a maximum chance of 88% between 8pm. Marcia Crohns of the National Weather Service said some storms could be severe, with damaging winds the main threat.
Crohns added that heavy rain, hail and even tornadoes are possible. The risk for severe storms is more likely near the Illinois border.
The National Weather Service predicts Milwaukee will receive 0.84 inches of rain tonight, with most of the rain falling between 8 and 11 p.m., with Racine forecasting 1.37 inches.
Milwaukee, Waukesha and Jefferson counties are under a severe thunderstorm warning until 11 a.m., while Kenosha, Racine, Walworth, Greene and Rock counties are under a tornado warning until 1 a.m.
Sunday's storm caused wind damage in Rock and Walworth counties, flash flooding in Janesville and Madison, and downed trees and hail in Cross Plains. The National Weather Service received no reports of storm damage in southeastern Wisconsin. Milwaukee received 0.37 inches of rainfall.
How long will the high temperatures last?
Krones said the hot weather should subside by tomorrow after a cold front moved in overnight. Wednesday is expected to be sunny with highs in the 70s and overnight lows in the 50s.
Hot weather safety tips
Hot weather can cause heat-related illnesses and even death. The Milwaukee Health Department and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention offer the following hot weather safety tips:
- Slow down and limit physical activity.
- Spend time in air-conditioned areas such as shopping malls, movie theaters or libraries.
- Do not leave children or pets in parked cars. Temperatures can become life-threatening within minutes.
- Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, light-colored clothing.
- Take a cold bath or shower. Apply a damp washcloth to your skin to cool down.
- Do not rely on fans as the primary cooling device.
- Drink lots of water.
- Avoid caffeinated or alcoholic beverages, which increase the thermic effect.
Wisconsin weather radar
Wisconsin Weather Warnings
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