Tornado Warning Wisconsin: Severe thunderstorms in Ozaukee, Milwaukee, Walworth, Racine and Waukesha counties
Statewide Tornado Drills are taking place this Thursday April 16th.
A tornado warning has been in place for the counties of Ozaukee, Milwaukee, Walworth, Racine and Waukesha in Wisconsin. The Facebook page for the City of Whitewater wrote: “ WISCONSIN TORNADO DRILL — THIS THURSDAY!
“Walworth County cities and villages test storm sirens on the third Wednesday of each month at noon unless there is the possibility of severe weather occurring.
“THIS WEEK, due to the possibility of severe weather anticipated for Wednesday, April 15th, and in conjunction with Severe Weather Awareness week, Walworth County will be testing storm sirens during the Statewide Tornado Drill at 1:45pm on Thursday, April 16th.
April 16th, 2026
1:45 PM
At both drill times:
• Social media alerts
• NOAA Weather Radio routine weekly test
• Public information statement
Optional (varies by community):
• Outdoor warning sirens
• TV/Radio interruptions
Please notice there will be no siren activation for the 6:45pm statewide test.”
According to The Weather Channel, “There is a possible risk of severe weather today. Wind, tornadoes and hail are possible. Look out for large hail.”
What is the difference between a Tornado Watch, a Tornado Warning and a Tornado Emergency?
According to The National Weather Service, with regards to a Tornado Watch, you have to be prepared. They state that “ Tornadoes are possible in and near the watch area. Review and discuss your emergency plans, take inventory of your supplies and check your safe room. Be ready to act quickly if a warning is issued or you suspect a tornado is approaching. Acting early helps to save lives! Watches are issued by the Storm Prediction Center for counties where tornadoes may occur. The watch area is typically large, covering numerous counties or even states.
For a Tornado Warning, The National Weather Service states that you need to “Take Action!”
“A tornado has been sighted or indicated by weather radar. There is imminent danger to life and property. Move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building. Avoid windows.
“ If in a mobile home, a vehicle, or outdoors, move to the closest substantial shelter and protect yourself from flying debris. Warnings are issued by your local forecast office. Warnings typically encompass a much smaller area (around the size of a city or small county) that may be impacted by a tornado identified by a forecaster on radar or by a trained spotter/law enforcement who is watching the storm.
A Tornado Emergency means: you need to “Seek Shelter Immediately.”
“A tornado emergency is the National Weather Service’s highest alert level. It is issued when a violent tornado has touched down in the watch area. There is a severe threat to human life and property, with catastrophic damage confirmed. Immediately seek refuge in the safest location possible. Call friends and family who are within the watch area to ensure they are aware of the situation. If you see a tornado approaching, do not attempt to outrun it in a vehicle; shelter in place. Once safe, be sure to monitor your local forecast for the latest updates.”