Apr. 16, 2026 9:45p
(WGTD)---At least five tornadoes were embedded in storms that struck the tri-county area of southeast Wisconsin this week. And the tally could potentially grow before Friday is done.
Another round of strong storms is expected to sweep through southern Wisconsin Friday evening. The greatest danger is in southwest Wisconsin. But National Weather Service forecasters say all types of hazards are possible throughout southern Wisconsin, including large hail, damaging winds and tornadoes.
A Flash Flood Watch has already been issued in anticipation of additional downpours.
After examining the damage, weather service personnel Thursday added Somers in Kenosha County to the list of municipalities hit by a tornado on Tuesday night. A high-end EF1 tornado with a wind speed of up to 105 miles per hour moved through the village from just east of the interstate to a point north of Petrifying Springs Park. It was responsible for downing five power poles and uprooting and snapping trees.
Other weak tornadoes Tuesday night struck areas in Racine County southeast of Rochester and in Waterford, while another twister was reported in Walworth County southwest of East Troy.
Also in Walworth County but on Wednesday night, a tornado ripped through a two-mile stretch west of Elkhorn, damaging rooftops and siding.
Once we get past Friday, relatively pleasant weather is forecast for the weekend, with dry conditions and highs near 50.
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