Hot and Humid weekend with Storms most days but especially Saturday, when some could be strong to severe.

Regional Weather View.

What seems to be never ending heat and humidity continue to be the main story across parts of the Upper Midwest, especially Iowa which will again have a heat wave for the weekend into next week. Mid 90 degree highs will be possible there most days. Further north will not be much cooler or less humid, upper 80s to 90s are possible even in Southern Minnesota and most of Wisconsin. A cold front providing relief from the warm humid conditions could spark strong to severe storms across Central Minnesota into Western Wisconsin.

Local View.

Locally Hot and Humid conditions will be part of the main story once again in what is becoming a very hot July. With sunny skies during the next 3 days, we will have hot humid days and warm humid nights, Highs will be in the upper 80s Saturday, Sunday and Monday, a few places could top 90.F briefly as well. Once again with dew points in the upper 60s to 70 Heat index values will rise to the mid to upper 90s, so once again people will have to deal with heat and humidity.

Strong to severe storm potential.

There will be a chance for strong to severe storms across parts of the area on Saturday Night. Storms will develop in Minnesota along a cold front, It is likely most of the severe weather will occur in Minnesota near the front, but if some of this holds together it cold still be strong possibly low end severe by the time it reaches our area. Hail and high winds would be the highest threats with these system, although heavy rain could be possibility as well. This best chances of these storms will be a night around evening or after dark on Saturday. Sunday and Monday the cold front will lift back north as a stationary front in which more storms could develop on, which is why there will be a chance of rain Sunday, and a better chance again on Monday. This wont be a wash out type of rain, Some people may stay dry, and others could be very wet. People spending the weekend out should be aware that the chance is there for severe weather.

Saturday, Sunny Hot and Humid, highs in the upper 80s. Heat index 90-95.F Saturday Night, A chance Thunderstorms, some could be strong to possibly severe. Lows in the low 70s.

Sunday, Mostly Sunny, Hot and Humid with a chance of a isolated storm, highs in the mid to upper 80s. Heat Index around 90.F Sunday Night Partly Cloudy, lows in the low 70s.

Monday, Partly Cloudy, Hot and Humid with a chance of a isolated storm late, highs in the upper 80s Heat Index 90-95.F Monday Night, a chance of thunderstorms, some could be strong. Lows in the upper 60s.

Looking Ahead

Tuesday into the up coming week as we enter August looks stormy, then it dries out and becoming cooler then currently for Wednesday through Saturday August 6, each day will becoming increasingly warmer towards Saturday the 6th. Then more stormy continues move in from the West on August 8th. Then seems to be off and on stoniness as after this date through the 14th. It also looks to cool off nicely for around the 14th as well.

One more warmer and more humid sunny day, then Thunderstorms moving in tomorrow night, some strong. Heavy rain possible. then better for Thurs.

Regional Weather View.

Focus in the Upper Midwest turns to a potent warm front which will be the focus for strong to severe storms across Northern Iowa, Southern Minnesota and Western Wisconsin. Heavy rainfall will also be possible especially in Minnesota. Along with the storms, hotter and more humid weather makes a come back region wide. It calms down storms wise on Thursday, but remains warm.

Local View.

Locally we will get one more sunny day, but it will be warmer and more humid then our Monday was. Highs will make mid, to possibly upper 80s with more humid conditions as well.

Strong/Severe storm potential and Heavy Rain

The best chances of Thunderstorms will be during the night time hours Tuesday night into Wednesday. This wave of storms could push through which could wake many up as it pushes through during the morning hours. Some of these storms could be strong, maybe low severe and Heavy rainfall is a possibility. Highest severe weather threat appears to be wind. Because of the high amounts of rain over the past few days, flooding is also a possibility.

Wednesday could have some morning storms, then skies will slow to clear, but once they do it will be warm and humid. Highs will make mid 80s, and lows in the low 70s. Thursday will be better, but it will be quite hot and humid as well. We have a small chance at thunderstorms during the afternoon, but there will be a fair amount of sunshine with highs in the upper 80s and lows in the mid 60s.

Tuesday, Warm and Humid, Sunny skies with increasing clouds. Highs in the mid 80s. Tuesday Night, Thunderstorms developing, some of the storms could be strong to severe and produce heavy rainfall. Lows in the low 70s

Wednesday, A chance of storms in the morning, otherwise warm and humid, partly sunny with highs in the mid 80s. Wednesday Night, Clearing skies, lows in the low 70s.

Thursday, Very Warm and Humid, with a small chance of a thunderstorm, otherwise partly cloudy with highs in the upper 80s. Thursday Night, Partly cloudy lows in the mid 60s.

Looking Ahead.

Looking Ahead too our weekend appears to bring us a good chance at sunshine most days. Friday will be cooler then Thursday and Sunny, but then in turns very warm for Saturday and Sunday both. August 1-2nd looks fair with pop up storms hear and then. Then Tuesday August 3rd looks hot and humid with a cold front bringing strong storms for the 4th. Looks cooler and drier for the 5th before it gets warmer and more storm with off and on chances and dry days as well as storms for the 6th through the 10th of August.

Hot and Humid Saturday with storms developing. Some could be severe and have heavy rain, then cooling off and becoming nice Sun/Mon.

Regional Weather View.

A frontal system will spread hot and humid weather that has been continuing in Iowa back north into Minnesota and Wisconsin on Saturday. Mid 90s degree highs are possible as far north as southern Minnesota. Along with the heat, a more significant treat for a severe storms and heavy rainfall. The highest threat for storms will be in Minnesota and Western & Central Wisconsin.

Local View.

Locally Saturday will be the day that people will want to keep a watch out for severe weather. First we will have to deal with heat and humidity again, depending on activity to our west, Skies will be partly sunny in the morning then becoming mostly sunny and highs will likely rise to the low 90s especially south. Some northerly locations may not get out of the 80s, Dewpoints will be highs as well and that could make for some 100+ degree heat index again.

Severe Weather Threat & Heat Rainfall Potential

There will be a heightened risk for severe storms tomorrow, especially if sunny skies comes to be true after the morning storms that could push through. If morning clouds and clear out Storms could develop along a stationary front that will be draped across the area, The best chance for storms will be in the afternoon and evening. The storms seem to have a heightened risk for wind in our area, and will also be capable of producing heavy rainfall well over an inch, and with all the rain the area as gotten last week it could cause flooding issues. People will want to keep an eye to the sky tomorrow, especially in the evening.

Sunday/Monday

A sharp cool front pushes though giving us much more pleasant conditions for these days, it will be much less humid as well. A high pressure system will give us sunshine with highs in the upper 70s to 80 and lows in the upper 50s to 60. People putting off lawn mowing because of heat will have the chance to get out there.

Saturday, Partly Sunny then clearing. Hot and humid with highs in the low 90s, heat index's over 100 in some areas. Thunderstorms developing in the evening, some could be severe and produce heavy rainfall. Saturday Night, Thunderstorms, some could be severe and produce heavy rain, otherwise cloudy with highs in the mid 60s.

Sunday, Sunny and breezy, highs in the upper 70s to low 80s. Sunday Night, Clear skies, lows in the upper 50s to low 60s.

Monday, Sunny and pleasant, highs in the low 80s. Monday Night, clear lows in the low 60s.

Looking Ahead

The models are pretty stretchy right now with storms and off and on warmth, but they show the week ahead from the 27th through the July 30s looks increasingly hot, humid and on and off chances for thunderstorms towards the middle of the week, then more pleasant and dry towards the end of the week and the end of July. The start of August looks to be on the warm side, but not hot along with on and off chances for storminess, with the models showing a cold front and more organized storm system for the 8th of August which could bring weather issues by that time.

Something new thats yellow besides the sun in the skies of Clayton-Water tower done being repainted!

Clayton Water tower repainted Picture taken July 22nd 2011

This post was made to cover what made big news this week throughout town! The Clayton water tower which towers high above our town was repainted this week. The tower used to be a light blue color with darker blue lettering which is the way it looked the entire time I was growing up. It has been repainted very bright yellow/gold with the words "Clayton Bears" in purple lettering to represent Clayton School colors!

Tower in the repainting process-picture taken from my rooftop.

It was very interesting to watch the tower be repainted, One thing many residents noticed was how fast the job got done, it was so fast some people did not even notice the work being done! The First day, a latter was installed to the top of the tower which is what is seen in the picture above. The second day the old blue lettering that said "Clayton Bears" was removed, and finally in the last couple days the tower was painted yellow then the words re added in new color.

New Clayton skyline July 22nd.

After the job was done, many were wowed be the new color and while at the bank I saw many people stopping and getting out of the cars just to get a closer look. A good ending sentence to this post is the new colors certainly made a permanent change the the skies of Clayton, and many like to new colors as it is much more interesting and stands out very well, This will be especially true in Winter!

July 17th-20th Significant heat wave report. many mid 90 degree highs with record setting humidity. Worst heat wave in 20 years.

U.S Heat index readings on July 19th 2011 Image from Weather.com

A significant heat wave impacted not just the local area, but the entire country with sweltering heat and humidity. Heat warnings or advisories were issued for the entire Upper Midwest in advance of the heat wave, and covered much of the Central U.S at least 10 states were put under some type of warning for heat from Oklahoma north to the Canadian border.

A outdoor prickly pear cactus which appropriately bloomed during the hot weather.

More locally this was the worst heat wave in 20 years. Most days during the start of this week had highs in the mid 90s, causing many issues for everyone. Most people were effected not only by the storms this system produced, but the heat made most people put off outdoor actives. I stopped mowing lawn just staying indoors with the certains shut to keep out the sun and the air on to keep cool. It really wasn't the heat with this heat wave, it was much more the oppressive humidity that we were locked under for days. Record setting dewpoints that read as high as 82.F put heat index values well over 100.F each day, some days heat index values were as high as 113 to 117 degrees. The setting of the sun did not provide any relief either. Once the temp rose into the mid 70s on Sunday Night, it did not cool off below there until the end wave ended. Night time lows were way up in the mid to upper 70s, with extremely humid conditions, this made heat index never fall out of the 80s at many locations. Then when the next morning arrived it quickly hot too hot to be outside by 10am most mornings my temp was already in the mid 80s!

Very Humid evening July 17th 2011

As stated above recording setting dewpoints were reached here in Western Wisconsin. The highest area dewpoint I saw from our area was 82.F from Osceola, Which is more typical of tropical jungles then it is Wisconsin, It is safe to say that dewpoints that high are certainly unheard of in our region. The picture above was taken during one of the humid evenings when the dewpoints were in the 80s, the air which was hazy from humidity it could be mistaken for fog! I also had to continually wipe off the camera lens when I took this picture because it kept fogging up, the camera coming from our cool house outside caused instant fog on the lens!

Numbers at my station

My station did break some 3 year records. Monday night the 18th, I has the warmest low temperature I've ever recorded. The low was 79.F. I also had the highest heat index value, which was 117.F. This was also a the first time I recorded 90s in a 4 day stretch. Making this year the most with mid 95 degrees highs I've ever record for one year. The highs and lows were as follows from the 17th through the 20th. 17th, 95/73. 18th, 96/79. 19th, 92/73. 20th, 95.F/73. Besides in my 3 year records I asked locals around the area how long it's been that hot, and most said it's been a very long time. My dad who even said it has never been that hot since he moved to Wisconsin more then 20 years ago. He actually found it to be ridiculously humid since he move here from Alabama to escape hot and humid conditions! Many people, as well as me were glad when a cold front that went through on Friday finally brought much needed relief from the area.

High temperatures reported on the 20th of July

Above is the are the highest temperatures that were reported when our heat wave peaked on Wednesday July 20th Dew points were in the low 80s during this day, so while temperatures were in the mid 90s, heat index values were well above 100.F. The highest station in the area was Knapp and Glenwood City at 97.F and the coolest was Cumberland at 90.F Stations with a * sign are official NWS sites.

July 19th storm report. Severe storms hit much of the area again - Major damage in Northeast Polk County-my area impacted by severe outflow.

The Northeast Polk County Super cellular storm near Turtle Lake July 19th 2011

Note: This report is subject to change as the NWS is still conducting surveys.

Area Report

Severe Thunderstorms hit the area again this past Tuesday, causing severe to major damage across parts of the area in what is coming a very active season for Western & Northwest Wisconsin. The cell above is just one of many severe thunderstorms that formed along a warm front that cut the areas conditions in half. South of the front was sulking in record low 80 degree dewpoints with temperatures in the low 90s. North of the front had 70s with dewpoints also in the 70s. This front later became for focus for severe thunderstorms, which caused severe and even major damage in parts of our area. Some areas ended up getting hitting twice in the same 3 hour period. My report will focus on the most damaging storms. The first super cellar storm formed north of Burnett & Washburn Counties and moved across the far Northeast part of Burnett County, and the entire eastern half of Washburn county. This storm did produced damaging winds and severe hail in Minong, Trego, Stone Lake. This storm was also responsible for producing very large hail as large as golf balls in Birchwood and northwest of Stone Lake. This cell also skirting the far Northeaster corner of Barron County and caused damage.

Damage to wooded area on the SW side of Pipe Lake in Northeast Polk County.

I first off have to thank Dirk for the opportunity to help him area to survey Northeast Polk County. Another super cellular storm formed right on the warm front near Siren, quickly became severe swept in a south, southeast direction. The storm caused damage in and took power out to Frederic. There was also a localized area of major damage seen at Pipe Lake in Northeast Polk County. The damage was especially intense on the wooded side of the Southwest side of the lake. The NWS will determine what caused this damage in the days to come. As this storm swept SSE it caused sporadic tree damage from very strong winds in areas of Eastern Polk County and Western Barron county East of Clayton, as well as Turtle Lake, Barron & Almeana, southeast to Dallas & then Northern Dunn County at Sand Creek.

Eastern Polk County storm effects at Clayton & My location



Closeup of Clayton radar. July 19th 2011

The very southwest edge of Burnett & Polk County super cellular storm moved across the far eastern part of Polk County and effected my location which is on the county line. The storm looked quite impressive of radar near Mikinly NNW of my location and was showing enough that the NWS issued a Tornado Warning for all of eastern Polk County. There there were 2 reports funnel clouds in the area. One reported in Turtle Lake and the second was 4 miles south of Turtle Lake which would have put in somewhere a few blocks northeast of me, but the report said it was lifting by the time it reached this area.


Tail Edge of the Storm passing over my location July 19th 2011

This storm posed significant severe weather threat to Clayton, and at one point with the radar signatures and reports i did get a bit worried becuase I have not seen reports of funnels so close to my house, but we were very fortunate there was no tornado in our area and I did not see a funnel anywhere, and actually there was very little rain with the storm only 0.02" The damage that did occur in my area was caused by a surprisingly different effect in this storm.




Video of strong outflow winds from my Front yard.

The most severe part of the storm in my area was the very strong, evening damaging outflow winds on the tail edge. The winds blew very strong strait from the ENE, not too long after the tail edge passed. Not only was there strong winds but the wind was constant and sustained for at least 15 minutes. The highest gust on my station was 40MPH which is impressive since I mentioned in past posts that my gauge is limited somewhat from our yard tree cover.

Large 3 inch pine branch in Eastern yard.

This large pine branch snapped front our pine trees on the eastern edge of of the yard during the strong wind. It was 3.50" in diameter and quite a fair sized branch. I believe part of the reason why this fell was the over abundance of pine cones where are weighing the branches down. There was plenty of other smaller branches down from the same trees as well.

Small branches from a branch that was removed before this picture.

Other large branches were snapped off around the area as well. The focus of the damage was East of Clayton. The picture above was taking of a tree top that was in the middle of the road, but was pulled off before I took this picture leaving this debris behind. Other damage including a large section of a tree that broke away from a mature tree about 1 mile southeast of my house. on county road ^

Area Storm Reports

Washburn County Storm.

Minong Tree branches down, some landing in power lines.

5 miles S Minong 59MPH wind gust. Trees down along highway 53

5 miles NW Stone Lake 16 inch diameter maple snapped, large oak topped and another uprooted.

5 miles NW Stone Lake 2.00" inch hail

Storm that caused Polk County damage and beyond.

Frederic 40 foot tree down. Power out across village.

4 miles SSW Mikinley- Pipe Lake, Trees down, docks destroyed and numerous buildings damaged damage also around Jonhnstown Township as well.

Turtle Lake, Funnel Cloud

Turtle Lake, Trees down.

Comstock 1..00 inch hail

4 miles S Turtle Lake, Funnel Cloud. Appears to have dissipated.

1 mile E Clayton, Large branches down. Wind lasted for 10-15 minutes.

Barron, Trees down across roads in the city.

Chetek, Tree down across road.

Dallas, Tree down across road.

2 miles SW Sand Creek, tree down across road.

Heat Wave Continuing- Heat Index values 100-115 next few days with 90-95.F temps. with Chances for thunderstorms, some strong Mon & Tues.

Regional Weather View.

Main story continues to be a Ring of Fire type heat wave caused by a hot high pressure system. Widespread Dangerously very hot, humid conditions with heat index values high then 100.F plague the entire region from north to south, east to west. High temperatures as hot as 95 to 100.F are possible in Minnesota, Wisconsin, Eastern North Dakota, Southeast South Dakota, and especially Iowa. Ongoing Thunderstorms, some strong to severe will be possible near the stationary front which will be draped across Northern Wisconsin and Minnesota.
Local View.

Dangerous Heat Continuing


Locally we are right in the middle of a significant, long lasting heat wave in which we have not seen for years. There is no relief in sight the for at least the next 4 days. Monday will bring us a chance of morning thunderstorms. Some of which could be strong to severe and produce territorially heavy rain. Then the storms will move out and skies will clear and we will have partly sunny skies, making way for another extremely hot steamy day Tuesday will have a slight chance of storms early and late, they should not be severe. Skies will be partly cloudy in the afternoon. Heat Index Values both Monday and Tuesday will be dangerously hot in the 100 to 115.F range with actual temperatures in the low to mid 90s and lows in the mid to upper 70s. Wednesday looks to be the hottest day with full sunshine and dry conditions lasting all day long, highs will top the mid 90s and approach the upper 90s close to 100.F in spots Heat Index Values will again be dangerously high in the 110 to 115.F range. There are signs that this heat wave may last through Thursday with no relief until Friday. Heat this long lasting can be dangerous to peoples health. Besides the heat index values during the day mentioned above, there will be no relief at night as warm night time lows and high dewpoints will make nights feel as if they are hotter then 85.F even in the dead of night. Drink plenty of water and limit time outdoors.

Monday, Very Hot! and Very Humid. A chance of morning thunderstorms, some could be strong to severe then partly sunny for the afternoon. Heat Index Values 110 to 115.F in the afternoon. Highs in the low to mid 90s. Monday Night, Hot! and Very Humid, lows in the mid 70s. Heat index values not falling below 85.F at night.

Tuesday, Very Hot! and Very Humid. slight chance thunderstorms, otherwise Partly Cloudy. Heat Index Values 110 to 115.F Highs in the low to mid 90s. Tuesday night, Hot! and Very Humid, Partly cloudy with lows in the mid to upper 70s. Heat index values not falling below 85.F at night.

Wednesday, Very Hot! and Very Humid. Sunny skies, Heat Index Values 110 to 115.F with highs in the mid to upper 90s. Wednesday Night, Hot! Clear Skies with lows in the mid 70s. Heat Index Values not falling below 85.F at night.

Looking Ahead-Hot Weather Conditions

As mentioned above it looks as though ho and humid condensations will last into Thursday, before some relief comes at us on Friday with a weak cool front. The weekend ahead still looks very warm even after the front, highs could still approach 90 during the day, but it should not be as humid. There will be a chance of Thunderstorms with the passing of the cool front on Friday and Saturday. Monday through Wednesday the 25th through the 27th look to cool off to normal July values in the low 80s. It continues to be cooler and dry through the 30th of July, then a hotter and stormier pattern begins as we approach August 2nd.

Torrienal rains bring Flooding to parts of the area- Severe flooding in Turtle Lake, with washed out roads in Clayton, 3+ inches fell at my location.

Morning Radar image of training thunderstorms over Polk & Barron counties.

Area Report

Loud Thunderstorms accompanied by very heavy torrential rain and dangerous lighting brought significant rainfall amounts over of 3 to 4 inches to parts of the area causing severe flooding in the form of significant community street flooding, agriculture flooding and in some cases wash out roads. Areas that received the highest rainfall totals was localized to an area that included my imitate location in Southeastern Polk County, with Southern Barron and Northern Dunn counties also being included. Western St Croix County also was hit torrential rain. from a secondary complex of storms.

Radar estimate.

Morning thunderstorms, which started of fairly small over Polk county around 4AM, were at first developing and moving northwest then they stalled, blossomed into a huge training complex of strong thunderstorms and then began training right over the central and southern part of Polk and Barron counties for a couple hours, then it slowly then moved south and east into Northern Dunn county. 4.50" of rain was reported in Turtle Lake, where a report of flooded village streets was reported. Further south more then 3 inches of rain was reported in Clayton with severe flooding as well. Radar estimates that a heavy core of rain also effected Prairie Farm, Dallas and Sand Creek. At the same time as the torrential rain north, heavy cells of thunderstorms over the Twin Cities metro moved into Southwestern St Croix county and brought torrential rains over 2 inches to the Hudson area with no reports of significant flooding in that area.

Clayton area Severe Flooding & Very Dangerous lightning.


Corn field flooded July 16th 2011

These storms brought a significant amount of rain which caused the severe flooding around my area, My rainfall totaled 3.66" from this storm, which easily shattered all of my 3 year old records for the highest 24 hour rainfall amount my location. Starting from the beginning I awoke to the south of thunder and vivid lightning at 4AM by a cell that was coming from the west. After a quick process of looking at the radar then shutting down the computer, torrential rain began falling. Rain was so heavy that my view of the garage across the yard was actually restricted, and with the wind first breezy from the west, made the windows look like going through a car wash. Near the same time as the heavy rain, multiple strikes one after another of extremely close and dangerous cloud to ground lightning was hitting all around.



Video of an Heavy Rain with an extremely close lightning bolt July 16th 2011

These storms brought the most frequently close strikes I've ever witnessed in a thunderstorm, There were so many close loud strikes in a long period of time that it was actually becoming a scary experience. After awhile the lightning slowed down briefly enough for me to go online and see on radar thunderstorm complexes that were just beginning to build south again towards my area, I began having a growing concern for flooding, because the rain was just not ending. The second wave moved in not long after the first with torrential blinding rain again and gusting winds this time from the east, It also came with more multiple dangerously close bolts. In this thunderstorm complex I filmed the bolt above which was the closest bolt of the night. The lightning strike was centered less then a half mile north of my yard, in the wood somewhere right behind our bard. The thunder was immediately after the first strike, and was so loud that what is heard on tape is the sound of thunder behind a window.


Polk/Barron St near County Road D intersection.

These storms brought severe flooding to Clayton with torrential rain lasting 2 hours. Locals say it is the worst in 20 years, which I believe because it is the worst flooding that I've ever seen while I was growing up here. A drive through Clayton after the storm showed lots flooded yards, and Mud creek at county road D was bank full and flooding. The worst of the flooding included a washout at section of my street here in southeast Clayton just a block from my house. My uncle called me after rain was over and he said as we was approaching what looked like an indent in the street ahead of him, after he stopped and looked awhile, the road which carved out completely underneath from water it gave way an collapsed into a 3 foot deep hole that was about 3 feet across. He called the police right after and they closed past County Road D until it can be repaired.

Driveway washout July 16th

This was a small drainage hole before the storm, afterwards it was opened into a hole that was 10 inches deep. Our driveway is not in need of repair because there are 5 to 7 inches ruts all up and down it from rushing water. What proved the rain to be heavy was that my yard and cornfields near my house had standing water in even as nightfall came the next night.

Flood & Highest rainfall Reports

Turtle Lake 4.50" Lots of flooding on Village streets

Clayton 3.66" lots of Flooded yards with Portion of Polk/Barron street near county road D intersection barricaded with washout.

Hudson 2.02"

Heat Wave Starting-Warm and Humid Friday with a chance of Thunderstorms-some strong Then Very Hot & Humid Sat/Sun- Heat index values 100-110.F likely

Regional Weather View.

The major topic for the entire Upper Midwest will be a long lasting scorching heat wave that will first approach from the west, then entrench the entire region in it Friday and Saturday. Along the warm front Strong to severe thunderstorms will be possible on Friday across Minnesota and parts of Wisconsin. Then on Saturday and Sunday will be very hot and dry with widespread temperatures in the 90s region wide, with highs 95 to 100.F in southern Minnesota and Western and Central Wisconsin and south. This heat wave will continue through Sunday and beyond.

Local view.

Rain Chances

Locally Friday will bring us a chance of thunderstorms at any part of the day with the passing of a warm front, some of these storms could be strong, some of the rain could also be heavy with some of the strong cells. It will be much warmer and more muggy, even on the warm side for some with partly cloudy skies Highs will be in the mid 80s Friday with lows in the 60s. Saturday there will be a chance of morning thunderstorms, then in the afternoon we will be left with hot and dry conditions, with Sunday having nothing but sunshine.

Long lasting Heat Wave Ahead

A very hot, muggy and potentially dangerous heat wave will plunge our area into very sweltering heat which will last for multiple days. Daytime highs on Saturday and Sunday be in the low mid 90s both days, with Upper 90 degree temperatures possible on our hottest day which will be Sunday, when we have sunny skies the entire day. Heat Index Values with temperatures this warm and dew points that high will be well into the 100 to 110.F range. What will make the heat even more of a problem, Low temperatures during the night will not provide any relief because lows will only fall to the mid to upper 70s, and wont be far below 80.F, which means heat index values may not fall below 85.F even at the dead of night. One thing that sets this heat wave aside from others in the past, is it will be the longest lasting heat wave in resent years. People in the local area should prepare for multiple days of sweltering daytime highs, and hot night time lows which will be considered dangerous for some to be outdoors during the hottest part of the day.

Friday, Partly Cloudy with a chance of thunderstorms. a few cloud be strong, Warm and Humid. Highs in the mid 80s. Friday Night, chance of thunderstorms continuing, lows in lower 70s.

Saturday, Hot and Humid. A chance of thunderstorms in the morning otherwise Mostly Sunny Highs in the low to mid 90s. Heat index values in the lower 100s. Saturday Night Warm and humid, Clear Skies, lows in the mid 70s.

Sunday, Very Hot! Sunny Skies. Highs in the mid to upper 90s, Heat index values 100 to 110.F. Sunday Night, Hot Clear Skies. Lows in the upper 70s. Heat index values not falling below 80-85.F


Looking ahead-Heat Wave Continuing

The very hot temperatures and high humidity will continue into next week with highs near Sundays high temperatures above being experienced through at least Wednesday of next week. and highs remaining near 90.F even as we approach next weekend. There will be an increasing chance of Thunderstorms as we approach Thursday of next week, that could last into Friday. Then for next weekend it remains hot and humid, looks like it has a even chance of being dry or wet. then Wednesday the 27th cooler air arrives with another chance of thunderstorms, then in becomes increasingly warm again by July 30th.

Flowers for Midsummer Garden Color- and deadheading tips on flowers that have faded.

Main garden in Midsummer Full Bloom. July 14th

Mid summer is here, and the mid summer flowers are in full bloom this week after our hot start to July, the recent cooler temperatures have really helped to preserved the color of the flowers not that they've opened. Flowers found blooming in my garden now include Dallies, Beebalm, which has just started. Oriental lilies, Sundrops, which are still going and purple belle flowers, which are actually wildflowers that have volunteered in my garden.

A great tip I can provide is it is always a good idea to have lots of different kinds of plants and flowers the bloom in different seasons so that blooms can be provided in all seasons. I've seen and heard of people who have planted mass plantings of the same kind of flower that gives them color while there blooming, but then they are left with green when they have stopped flowering. Don't be afraid to try new plants, and Now is the time to check out gardens centers, as plants are going on sale! For information on what plants bloom when, Go back and check past posts on my blog for flowers that have bloomed at past seasons so far this year!

North side Hosta Garden.

Hosta are plants that actually look nice at all times of the year because of their interesting foliage. Common Hosta have light purple bell shaped flowers that come out on long thin stems in Mid July, but some bloom in August with white nice smelling flowers. I found I actually like the flowers, and humming birds really enjoy them, but some people prefer hosta with out the flowers, in either case It is beneficial to cut the flower stalk off once the flowers have faded.

Belle flowers & Daylilles in a naturalized setting July 13th

If you are re doing a daylilly bed, or or just thinning some out, you can always plant them along a grassy hillside where they can naturalize, they are quite pretty blooming in a woods setting or along driveways, and I've found them so hardy, that I didn't even have to plant them in the soil I just set the plants on top of the ground and they take root!


Deadheading Tip-Cutting off the old flower stalks


Dead blooms on a Peony plant before deadheading

Most perennial flowers in Wisconsin have one bloom time in a certain time of the growing season, during the rest of the time they are either in the growing process, or they are maintaining leaves to provides nutrients for next years flowers.

Peony plant after deadheading.

After plants have finished blooming, it is a good idea, and is actually beneficial to the plant to take a snipers of scissors and cut off the bloom stalk right where the stalk ends and the foliage begins. This is beneficial to the plant because it allows the plant to focus on maintaining foliage for next years blooms instead of on a seed pod, which in most cases does not make a new plant anyway. Not only is it beneficial but it cleans blooming plants ups and brings out the color of foliage, this is especially true for Peonies and Hosta. Remember when deadheading to leaves the foliage because that provides the nutrients for the next years flowers!

Sunny and pleasent next two days, then increasing clouds with thunderstorms Thursday, some could be strong and produce heavy rain.

Regional Weather View.

A quiet and pleasant pattern will be in place for the Upper Midwest the next couple of days, it will bring dry sunny conditions and pleasant temperatures, before an approaching warm front will bring the chance for thunderstorms region wide for Thursday. Heavy rain may be a possibility across much of the region on Thursday. Severe weather may be a possibility by then as well.

Local weather view.

Locally A high pressure system will give us a couple of nice lawn mowing, and farming days Tuesday and Wednesday. Both days should bring us sun, pleasant temperatures and low humidies. Highs will be in the mid to upper 70s, and lows in the upper 50s to low 60s. Thursday an approaching warm front will bring in increasing cloudiness and then eventually thunderstorm chances. The best chance for storms will be during the daylight afternoon hours, some of these storms could be strong and produce locally heavy rain. Highs will remain in the mid to upper 70s and lows in the low 60s Thursday due to more cloudiness.

Tuesday, Pleasant, less humid and sunny. Highs in the mid to upper 70s. Tuesday Night, Clear Skies, lows in the upper 50s to low 60s.

Wednesday, Nice & Sunny, Highs in the upper 70s. Wednesday Night, Partly Cloudy, lows in the low 60s.

Thursday, Increasing clouds with Daylight hour Thunderstorms, some of these storms could be strong and produce locally heavy rain, otherwise Partly Sunny with highs in the upper 70s. Thursday Night, A chance of lingering thunderstorms, otherwise cloudy, with lows in the low 60s.

Looking Ahead

It is clear that a well defined long lasting heat wave that has been showing in the models the past few weeks will push into the area starting Friday of this upcoming weekend, Hot conditions with highs in the upper 80s to 90 everyday along with Very humid conditions will stick around for quite a few days, lasting through the entire weekend into early next week. A few of those days, highs may approach the mid 90s in some areas, with hot night time lows not getting out of the 70s. The hot and humid conditions will last until at least Wednesday of next week, Also during afternoons during some of these hot and humid days thunderstorms will be possible, which could produce strong storms. It cools off with a cool front, bringing more thunderstorm chances Thursday and Friday the 21st to the 23rd. Then it remains season and dry for the 23rd to the 27th before more heat and humidity build back to the west which could bring us hot conditions for the start of August.

Strong to Severe Storms cause a few isolated issues in parts of the area, including Clayton, Highest measured thunderstorm wind gust at my location.

Radar Capture of the storm at 11:32PM July 11th

Area storm report.

A Strong to severe line of thunderstorms which started in North Dakota pushed across the Upper Midwest, then through the area around 11:30pm last night well ahead of a cold front that was moving through the region. A Radar capture can be seen above taken at 11:32PM last night. The storms did not cause area wide damage, but it did cause a few issues, even some big problems for some parts of the area, as they brought strong winds, heavy rain and frequent lightning. The biggest problem with the storms was strong gusty, and in some cases wind that was strong enough to take down trees and large tree limbs. Damage from this line is mainly isolated to a few scatted areas, with the area having the most areal coverage of damage being Dunn County around Memomonie, Eau Galled and Boyceville. Winds up to 74MPH was recorded in Eau Galle with this storm. My uncle who drove through the area mentioned how much of the corn was flatted near Menomonie, There was also other areas of more spotty damaging including a fair amount of damage around my location in Clayton, I also saw large branches down New Richmond, and a friend reported large branches as well down in Turtle Lake. Both the NWS New Richmond Station, and Amery Unofficial Station recorded a 47MPH wind gust.

Clayton & My location storm damage




Video of the storm July 10th 2011

This storm ended out being fairly significant locally. It took down many large branches and trees around town, and it brought the highest wind gust from a thunderstorm my station has ever recorded. The wind hit ahead of the heaviest rain, and hit with a force. It was not like July 1st storms, instead last nights storm brought quick short, but very strong gusts from almost the strait north. I remember suddenly hearing wind and rain hitting strong against windows on the north side of our home, and glancing at my small tree on the north side whipping fairly constant. My wind gauge, which has a few obstacles near it recorded a 41MPH wind gust, which will be written down as the highest thunderstorm wind gust at my station.

Pine branches down at my yard, with yard stick for measurement.

My yard had some minor damage as well, there were lots of small to mid sized branches down and leaves spread across the yard, some of these branches were large enough to where I could not go over them with the lawn mower. The largest was 1 inch in diameter, pictured above.

Tree down in front of my aunts house 1 mile south of Clayton.

Damage around the immediate Clayton area was fairly widespread, especially Western parts and southern parts of the village limits. I saw more then 1 yard around in town that has some sort of tree damage, but the most damage was centered around my aunts home 1 mile south of town, one tree I did not take a picture of that was near the gas station lost most of it's top but the section of tree did not fall to the ground.
Large mature oak tree toppled in my Aunt & Uncles cow yard.

This was the largest tree that I saw down, this tree was uprooted, and was found downwind of the damage pictures below and above. This tree fairly healthy, despite a few which may have been partly the cause of why it fell. Still it was full of green leaves.


Large branch hanging in a power line at my aunts yard.

My aunt & Uncles has been very un lucky this year. This is the 3rd time this year storm damage has brought me over to their farm, But this storm was particularly damaging in their yard. This branch above broke off the tree near their driveway and fell into the powerlines, I luckily noticed this for them just in time for it to start smoking, My uncle later called the power company and it was removed. My uncle told me Barron Electric mentioned to him while he was on the phone that they had a lot of reports of branches in powerlines in there area which serves much of Barron County, The reason why this storm may have been so damaging at my aunts yard is their house is very open along the North side, and is downwind of the damage near the gas station.

Second Large branch down at my aunt & uncles yard off a different tree

Damage Reports & along with highest wind gusts.

Amery, 47MPH gust

Clayton, Multiple large branches and trees down along with large mature oak, one branch fell into power lines.

Clayton, 41MPH gust

Turtle Lake, 3 inch diameter branch down.

New Richmond, 47MPH gust

New Richmond, 5 inch diameter branch downed at WITC

Eau Galle, 74MPH

3 miles N Menomonie, 8 inch diameter branch fallen into powerlines

1 mile N Menomonie, 3 inch diameter tree fallen into the road

3 miles E Boyceville, pick up trailer hauling canoes was rolled over

Menomonie, Tree topped into city street.

Severe weather risk Saturday/Sunday

Image from SPC

The Storm Prediction Center has a Slight Risk for the central part of the Upper Midwest Saturday, this includes most of the local area. I agree with the SPC for issuing a risk and there area. A weak front will linger around the area,thunderstorms may develop along this front and becoming strong to severe. The biggest threats will be very heavy rain, large hail, strong winds, and possibly tornado's.

Image from SPC

The Storm Prediction Center, also has a Slight Risk, for severe thunderstorms across a large part of the Upper Midwest Sunday only it is extended to include most of Wisconsin, The slight risk covers the entire 6 county area. I also agree with the risk and area for Sunday. Thunderstorms could develop along a warm front and they could become strong to severe. Largest threats include again, very heavy rain, large hail, damaging winds, and a small tornado threat. People across the area should closely monitor weather this weekend severe weather threaten.

Going to camping this weekend

This is a notice to my blog viewers I will not be here to post updates to the upcoming severe weather threats. I' am going on a family vacation camping on a local area camping right here in Western Wisconsin at St Croix Falls. I will provde ocasional weather condtions from the campsite! For coverage here in the area, I will post all severe weather threats before I leave, and I will have the warning map up at the top of my blog with color codes for warnings.

Summer like weekend ahead-very warm and humid with afternoon Storms, some strong possible each afternoon.

Regional weather view.

A hotter, more humid and active weather pattern will develop over the Upper Midwest, A stationary front draping across the area will cause bouts of thunderstorms to develop region wide, some of these storms could go severe at any location across the region, with the best chances being on Saturday or Sunday. Heavy rainfall is possible from these storms. Temperatures will be in the low to upper 80s across Minnesota and Wisconsin each and everyday, with 90s on Sunday, with 90s occurring in Iowa & Illinois most everyday.

Local View.

Note: This forecast replaces my forecast for Friday.

Locally we can expect the chance for thunderstorms to increase the next 3 days, along with hotter and more humid conditions to move in and stay for the weekend. A stationary front will be near the area Friday Saturday and Sunday, causing the possibility of brief pop up thunderstorms to develop. These storms will be the kind that would be brief, it will cloud up, storm, then the sun would come back out. It will not be the all day type of rains. Because of the nature of the storms, and moisture that will be around, storms at any time day or night the next 3 days could be strong, possibly low end severe, So people will want to take the time to keep an eye on the weather just in case, The chance of storms will start to decrease later Sunday. Temperatures will first start off very warm in the upper 80s on Friday and Saturday with, then hot in the low 90s on Sunday, Along with these temperatures It will be muggy all 3 days as well, with fairly warm night lows, but because it is summer and typical for this time of year, heat and humidity should not cause problems.

Friday, Partly Cloudy Very warm and humid. A chance of isolated thunderstorms. Highs in the upper 80s. Friday Night, Partly Cloudy, lows in the upper 60s.

Saturday, Partly Cloudy, Very Warm and humid. Isolated thunderstorms possible through the day, some could be strong, highs in the upper 80s. Saturday Night, A chance of thunderstorms, lows in the low 70s.

Sunday, Partly Cloudy, Hot and humid, a chance of Thunderstorms, some could be strong, especially early. Highs in the upper 80s to low 90s. Sunday Night, Partly Cloudy, lows in the low 70s.

Looking Ahead

Monday Tuesday and Wednesday of next week it dries out, but temperatures will stay typical for July. Then it really starts to heat up and become more storms by Thursday the 14th through the 18th, There will be off an on thunderstorm chances, along with a possible string of 90 degree day temperatures. It cools off to typical summertime temps again by 19th and it is dry. Then July 20th has warmer conditions, and the chance for heavy storms before a sharp cold front cools things off and dries things out just in time for the 21 through the 23rd. But heat and humidity are building back west by this frame, and may be pushing east beyond this time frame.

Calm nice days ahead, Sunny with very little chances of rain.

Regional Weather View.

A calm string of days continuing for the Upper Midwest, there will be plenty of sunshine to go around with typical summer time temperatures and humidity. Only slight chances for thunderstorms remain in the forecast for parts of the region, most areas can expect dry weather

Regional Weather View.

A nice calm stretch of rainless weather is ahead, and even continuing for many areas. A high pressure system will provide us plenty of mowing opportunities the next 3 days. The only chance of rain will be Thursday, and the chance looks pretty slim even for light rain. Temperatures all 3 days will be typical summer high temps, highs will be in the low to mid 80s for highs, and lows in the low to mid 60s.

Wednesday, Sunny, Highs in the low to mid 80s. Wednesday Night, Clear skies, Lows in the low 60s.

Thursday, Sunny & Warm, highs in the low to mid 80s Thursday Night, Clear skies, lows in the low to mid 60s

Friday, Sunny & Warm, Highs in the mid 80s, Friday Night, Clear Skies, lows in the mid 60s.

Looking Ahead

The models are trending a pretty, a warmer and more humid, along with a slightly active pattern, which will start this upcoming weekend. Saturday & Sunday both with have a chance of thunderstorms. We get a little break from the warmth and humidity Tuesday and Wednesday the 12th and 13th, before a warm front brings a chance of heavy thunderstorms the 15th. Then behind that the heat and humidity really kicks in. The models show a long stretch of hot and humid weather from the 16th of July to the 21st, there will be off an on chances of thunderstorms, some heavy.