Rain, heat, and potential thunderstorms are moving into northeast Wisconsin, threatening to complicate recovery efforts for families clearing debris from the devastating July 27 tornado.
National Weather Service Green Bay meteorologist Roy Eckberg warns that while Sunday will bring cooler temperatures, the upcoming stretch of weather Friday and Saturday could present active hazards for cleanup crews and displaced residents.
Here is what we know.
High heat index poses threat
High humidity will push the afternoon heat index into the upper 80s, according to Eckberg.
“Now today [July 30], the heat index this afternoon will be upper 80s, the temperature reaching a high of 90 degrees,” said Eckberg. “People cleaning should be drinking lots of fluids.”
Chance of rain and thunderstorms
Rain chances will steadily ramp up over the next 48 hours, with the heaviest downpours expected to pass just south of Appleton.
On Friday afternoon, there is a 40-50% chance of rain, beginning early to mid-afternoon, bringing a light 1/10th to 2/10ths of an inch. There is a low 10% chance of thunderstorms in the Neenah-Menasha area.
On Friday night, the rain chances peak at 65-75%. This will be the wettest period, dropping 1/4 to 1/2 an inch of water. The chance of thunderstorms rises slightly to 10-15%.
And on Saturday, the area faces another potential round of rain with isolated thunderstorms, adding up to another 1/10th of an inch, but with a 20% chance of precipitation as the day progresses.
Critical safety advice for tornado victims
Eckberg strongly advises residents to adjust their recovery plans around the changing weather, emphasizing structural safety over cleaning.
The incoming rain and wind could travel over damaged properties. Make sure to stay away from exposed areas until they are properly cleaned and secured by the proper response teams.
If you need a clear, safe window for outdoor work, Aug. 2 is predicted to be clear and offers the best conditions for uninterrupted cleanup by inclement weather.
Emma Johnson is the Appleton Post-Crescent’s summer intern. Reach her at ejohnson@gannett.com.
This article originally appeared on Appleton Post-Crescent: Upcoming storms, heat threaten Menasha, Appleton-area tornado cleanup
Reporting by Emma Johnson, Appleton Post-Crescent / Appleton Post-Crescent
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By Emma Johnson, Appleton Post-Crescent | USA TODAY Network
