DODGE COUNTY, Minn. – A tornado touched down near Hayfield, Minnesota, on Monday evening, raising concerns as severe weather looms across the Midwest.

Confirmation and Eyewitness Account

FOX 9 Chief Meteorologist Ian Leonard confirmed the tornado’s touchdown near Hayfield, located about eight miles southwest of Dodge Center, Minnesota, shortly before 7 p.m. The event was captured on video by Jamie Kiefer, depicting the ominous funnel cloud touching down in a field.

Seasonal Tornado Activity

Tornadoes in Minnesota are most prevalent from May to September, with occasional occurrences beyond this period. Despite the usual seasonality, the latest recorded tornado in the state was documented in December 2021. On average, Minnesota experiences around 46 tornadoes per year, according to data from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.

Impending Severe Weather

The tornado near Hayfield marks the beginning of potential severe weather extending from Monday night into Tuesday. Forecasters anticipate the development of strong storms across a significant portion of Minnesota by Tuesday afternoon, raising concerns for residents and authorities alike.

Conclusion: Stay Informed and Prepared

As the Midwest braces for potential severe weather, residents are urged to stay informed about weather updates and heed any warnings issued by local authorities. With the threat of tornadoes and other severe weather events looming, preparedness and vigilance remain paramount for the safety and well-being of communities in the region. For the latest news and alerts, download The Local News App to your phone.

Source