:: Storm Update 1730CDT
...NOW... The severe weather situation for the Twin Cities metro continues to intensify and worsen. A cluster of tornadic cells (as confirmed by radar and storm spotters in Nicollet County around 1715CDT) has formed near the Mankato area, and is proceeding ENE in the warm sector, where surface bulk shear levels are highest. Additional cells are popping to the north and east of this area near Lakeville, but are in cooler airmass and not as explosive. Extreme hight falls are adding to continued instability, with local pressure falling rapidly through the afternoon.
A second line of storms has just cleared Stearns County, and has passed through STC southeasterly along I-94, and training down the frontal boundary. This line is beggining to bow a little, and shows evidence of strong wind and hail potential.
These two independant MCS clusters/lines are converging on the Metro Area at this time.
I have also circled in purple and area of genesis for further storm development tonight. This area of SW and SC MN is primed...temps have been in the upper 80's, and dewpoints in the mid-70's...and now the tornadic warm sector storms in Nicollet Co. show proof the cap has eroded.
Please stay tuned to local television and radio news stations for updates on warnings as the night progresses.
TORNADO WATCH UNTIL MIDNIGHT...FLASH FLOOD WATCH UNTIL 5AM