Severe T-Storm Watches Issue for MN/IA/SD — July 26, 2026 — SevereWX

LIVE Severe Weather Update: July 26, 2026 (EDT)

An Enhanced risk for severe thunderstorms covers parts of the northern Plains and Upper Midwest per SPC's Day 1 outlook, with Slight coverage over South Dakota. Storms are developing now across Minnesota, Iowa and nearby areas, leading to mesoscale discussions and severe thunderstorm watches. No tornado watches are in effect, but damaging wind and large hail remain the primary threats at this hour.

Focus remains on ongoing storm initiation in the affected zones, with potential for intensification over the next few hours into early July 26.

Timeline

8:45 PM EDT — Watch likely soon for severe storms in southwest/south-central MN, northwest/north-central IA

SPC issues a mesoscale discussion highlighting a strong potential for severe thunderstorms across southwest and south-central Minnesota, northwest and north-central Iowa, and parts of South Dakota. A severe weather watch is likely, carrying a 95% probability of issuance. Storms could bring damaging winds and large hail as they develop.

9:34 PM EDT — Severe Thunderstorm Watch 514 issued for portions of southern Montana

SPC notes the issuance of Severe Thunderstorm Watch 514 covering portions of southern Montana. This watch addresses ongoing severe weather potential in the area. Residents should prepare for possible damaging winds and hail.

10:07 PM EDT — Severe Thunderstorm Watch 515 issued for extreme southwest MN, far northwest IA

A new Severe Thunderstorm Watch 515 is now in effect for extreme southwest Minnesota and far northwest Iowa, per SPC mesoscale discussion. Storms in these areas pose a severe risk through the coming hours. Stay alert for updates on local warnings.

12:00 AM EDT — Mesoscale update on Severe Thunderstorm Watch 515 for south-central MN, north-central IA

SPC follows up with another mesoscale discussion concerning Severe Thunderstorm Watch 515, now encompassing south-central Minnesota and north-central Iowa. This reflects expanding storm coverage and continued severe potential. Activity continues to build overnight.

What's Next

Storms persist across Minnesota and Iowa under active severe thunderstorm watches, with potential for local warnings into early July 26. The Enhanced risk area including South Dakota bears watching for new development and possible additional watches over the next several hours.

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