Wisconsin Weather Today Update:Severe weather swept across parts of Wisconsin on Tuesday evening after a confirmed tornado touched down near Mauston and Union Center, prompting urgent warnings from the National Weather Service. Officials described the situation as dangerous, with the storm rapidly moving east and threatening multiple communities and residents were urged to take shelter immediately as the storm intensified. The tornado warning came amid broader severe weather conditions affecting Juneau County including strong winds, hail and widespread power outages.
Tornado Warning continues for Mauston WI, Lemonweir WI and Lindina WI until 6:00 PM CDT pic.twitter.com/qcWVsh0pAx
— NWS Tornado (@NWStornado) April 14, 2026
Wisconsin Storm Alert:Â Confirmed Tornado Near Mauston
Meteorologists confirmed that a tornado was spotted near Elroy around 5:49 PM CDT, moving east at approximately 35 mph and local emergency alerts described the storm as rain-wrapped and potentially up to two miles wide, making visibility difficult and increasing danger.
Authorities issued urgent warnings for:
- Mauston
- Lemonweir
- Lindina
- Union Center
- Lyndon Station
Residents were advised to seek shelter immediately in basements or interior rooms away from windows.
Mauston Tornado Alert: Storm Path & Speed Raise Concerns
The tornado developed from a severe thunderstorm first detected near Hillsboro, roughly 13 miles southwest of Mauston and the storm rapidly strengthened while moving east, bringing:
- Wind gusts exceeding severe limits
- Hail measuring 1.25 inches in diameter
- Heavy rain reducing visibility
- Flying debris risks
Officials warned that mobile homes were particularly vulnerable with potential for structural damage to homes, vehicles and trees.
Mauston Tornado Alert: Power Outages Reported Across Juneau County
As the storm intensified, power outages spread across Juneau County. According to outage tracking data:
- 949 homes and businesses lost power
- 17,808 total customers tracked
- 5.33% of the county impacted
Utility crews were placed on standby as officials warned outages could increase if the storm continued strengthening.
Mauston Tornado Alert: Emergency Warnings & Safety Measures
Authorities issued urgent safety instructions:
- Move to basement or lowest floor immediately
- Stay away from windows
- Avoid traveling during warnings
- Monitor official weather alerts
- Check on vulnerable neighbors
Emergency officials emphasized that rain-wrapped tornadoes are especially dangerous, as they are harder to detect visually.
Mauston Tornado Alert: Communities in the Impact Zone
Meteorologists identified several communities at risk, including:
- Elroy
- Wonewoc
- Lindina
- Seven Mile Creek
- Pleasant Ridge
- Bass Hollow Recreation Area
- Mullin Ridge
Residents in these areas were urged to remain alert as the storm moved northeast.
Mauston Tornado Alert: What Happens Next?
Weather experts warned that severe conditions could continue into the evening, with additional thunderstorms possible. Authorities continue monitoring radar activity and damage reports as emergency teams prepare for potential response operations while no major injuries were immediately confirmed and officials stressed that the situation remains fluid. Residents were encouraged to stay indoors and follow official updates until warnings expire.
Disclaimer: This article weather information is based on official alerts and developing reports. Conditions may change rapidly. Follow local authorities for real-time updates and safety guidance.