Severe thunderstorm watch until 1 a.m., tornado potential into Thursday

A potent warm front and low pressure system is pushing north into Minnesota, sparking rounds of strong to severe storms. Most of Minnesota is under a risk for severe storms through Thursday.

A severe thunderstorm watch is in effect until 1 a.m. and includes the Twin Cities metro area.

ww0126_radar_big

This system is likely to produce severe storms with large hail 1 to 2-plus inches in diameter; it has the potential for damaging winds in stronger storms. Storms may roll into the metro late tonight, and continue on and off through Thursday.

Get the latest watches, warnings and tweets from the MPR News severe weather live blog.

1507 sig
NOAA/SPC

The approaching low pressure center and warm front will generate enough low level wind shear -- enough spin in the atmosphere -- to create the potential for a few tornadoes as we head into Thursday.

1507 5 allfcsts_loop_ndfd (1)
NOAA

We are basically on alert now for strong to severe storms through Thursday.

I expect watches and warnings for much of Minnesota. The primary threats are large hail and damaging winds, but there is the potential for tornadoes. Keep a high level of situational awareness for the next 24 to 36 hours.

Create a More Connected Minnesota

MPR News is your trusted resource for the news you need. With your support, MPR News brings accessible, courageous journalism and authentic conversation to everyone - free of paywalls and barriers. Your gift makes a difference.