Weather Service Issues Tornado Watch for Golden Valley

Hennepin County is currently under a tornado watch. The National Weather Service says severe weather could sweep through Golden Valley later tonight, starting around 8 p.m.

While some meteorologists expect the storm to weaken as it reaches the metro, they are warning people to stay alert. Weather warnings can change quickly.

Around 5 p.m. the St. Cloud area was experiencing some tornadic activity, with heavy rains and reports of funnel clouds. The NWS has also said the highest risk area for a tornado will be confined to mainly along and north of Interstate 94.

Some of the storms will have strong wind gusts of 40-50 mph and possibly hail up to nickel size. Rainfall estimates range from a quarter inch to an inch and a quarter from the heaviest showers. 

Tuesday brings the greatest risk for severe thunderstorms this week, the NWS said. 

It appears there will be sufficient instability and wind shear to support the development of severe thunderstorms with damaging winds before a cold front arrives, according to the NWS.

There will be several more bouts of showers and thunderstorms over the next few days. Isolated severe storms are possible again Wednesday and Thursday.