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Overview

A potent early spring storm brought a variety of impactful weather to the region on Friday, March 31, 2023. Strong to severe storms, snowfall, strong-gusty winds, and heavy rain with localized flooding were all realized. A condensed, 24 hour version of nearly all the weather that can be expected in the spring months.

Strong-Severe Storms: Storms developed across Iowa by early-mid afternoon, advancing northeast. The storms became strong to severe, producing damaging winds, large hail and several tornadoes. However, as the storms started to move into northeast Iowa and southwest Wisconsin, the atmosphere was not as favorable for widespread severe storms. There was still some wind damage and large hail, but only one tornado was recorded in the NWS La Crosse service area. NWS Quad Cities had numerous tornadoes from this event.

Snow: Farther north, cold air resulted in bands of snow on northern and northwest portions of the storm. The axis of heavier snows ran from the Twin Cities in Minnesota into northeast Wisconsin. Amounts upwards of 1 foot fell - locally, the higher amounts were confined north of highway 29 in north-central Wisconsin. 

Rain: Rain was plentiful and set some daily records at a few locations. Ponding of water on roads and culverts overflowing were reported. Many rivers also had rises, with the runoff pushing some spots into flood. 

Wind: Even though some storms produced strong winds, strong and gusty winds were felt across the region as the entire storm system exited. Northwest winds of 35 to 45 mph were common Friday night, slowly diminishing later Saturday morning. 

 

radar image from 1 to 7 pm on March 31, 2023
Radar from 1 to 7 pm, March 31st, 2023
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