Severe Thunderstorm Warning Issued for Part of Sherburne County Until 6:00 p.m.

(KNSI) – The National Weather Service has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning for parts of central and east-central Minnesota on Friday evening, with the alert set to expire at 6:00 p.m.

The warning, issued at 5:09 p.m. by the National Weather Service in the Twin Cities, covers northeastern Sherburne County, northwestern Anoka County and southwestern Isanti County.

As of 5:09 p.m., radar showed a severe thunderstorm about nine miles northeast of Becker, or 18 miles east of St. Cloud, moving east at 25 mph.

Forecasters say the storm is capable of producing 60 mph wind gusts and quarter-size hail up to one inch in diameter. Hail damage to vehicles is expected, along with possible wind damage to roofs, siding and trees.

Communities in the storm’s path include Santiago, Orrock, Zimmerman, Princeton, Elk River, Spencer Brook, Nowthen and St. Francis, as well as the Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge and the Princeton Airport.

The Weather Service urges residents in the warned area to seek shelter inside a well-built structure and stay away from windows until the storm passes.

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