Tornado Spotted Near Rochester; Tornado Watch Issued for Southern MN and WI
Severe thunderstorms moved through southeastern Minnesota and western Wisconsin on Friday, April 17, 2026. The line produced multiple tornado reports, large hail and damaging winds across the region.
Confirmed tornadoes and warnings
The National Weather Service confirmed a tornado near Fairchild, Wisconsin late Friday afternoon. Law enforcement reported the tornado had lifted after touching down north of Highway 10.
A separate large tornado was observed in Buffalo County, Wisconsin. That circulation was later reported as lifted, though the warning for the area remained active through midafternoon.
Observed tornado near Rochester
Meteorologists with FOX 9 reported a Tornado Spotted Near Rochester as storms intensified along a progressing cold front. A tornado warning for Olmsted County was in effect for a short period during the early afternoon.
Watches, warnings and watches count
A Tornado Watch Issued for Southern MN and WI covered a broad area until 8 p.m. Friday. The watch included parts of southeastern Minnesota and much of southern Wisconsin and Iowa.
At one point, FOX Weather tracked seven active tornado warnings across the Midwest. The warnings spanned Minnesota, Iowa and Illinois during peak storm activity.
Timeline of key developments
- 9:20–10:15 a.m.: Special weather statements and early severe thunderstorm warnings affected Owatonna, Faribault and Northfield.
- 9:25–5:00 p.m.: A severe thunderstorm watch covered eastern Minnesota and western Wisconsin, with threats including lightning and hail.
- 9:37–10:15 a.m.: A severe thunderstorm warning listed possible winds to 50 mph and half-dollar-sized hail for parts of southern Minnesota.
- Noon–early afternoon: FOX 9 updated viewers on storm trends and timing across the region.
- 12:30 p.m.: A river flood warning was issued for La Crosse County, Wisconsin, effective from 10:55 a.m. Friday through 8:30 p.m. Saturday.
- Early to mid-afternoon: Golf ball-sized hail was reported near Rochester during severe storm pockets.
- Mid-afternoon: A tornado warning for Olmsted County ran until 2:45 p.m., and a Buffalo County warning extended until approximately 4:30 p.m.
- 4:42 p.m.: The NWS confirmed the tornado near Fairchild, Wisconsin, which local authorities said had lifted.
Threats and forecast details
Forecasts indicated a marginal severe risk across the Twin Cities metro. Southeastern Minnesota faced higher risk levels, including slight and enhanced categories.
Storm hazards included large hail, damaging wind and the possibility of isolated tornadoes. Some guidance warned of isolated wind gusts approaching 70 mph in stronger cells.
Local impacts and safety reminders
Officials urged residents in warned areas to take shelter immediately when warnings were issued. Those in low-lying zones near La Crosse County were advised to monitor river levels and local flood statements.
By evening, showers and storms were expected to wane. Blustery winds and temperatures in the 40s were forecast to follow the storm complex.
This report was compiled using updates from FOX 9, FOX Weather and National Weather Service briefings. Filmogaz.com will continue to monitor developments and share any new advisories.
