Severe Storms and Tornadoes Strike Wisconsin: Damage Reports and Aftermath
A violent series of storm systems tore through southern and central Wisconsin on April 14, 2026, leaving a trail of structural damage, widespread power outages, and flash flooding. From early morning thunderstorms to a powerful evening system, the state faced a multi-stage weather event that triggered tornado warnings and forced school closures across multiple districts.
- Confirmed Tornado: The National Weather Service confirmed a tornado in Sussex shortly before 6:30 p.m.
- Infrastructure Damage: Significant damage reported at St. Joseph Catholic Church in East Bristol and various power grids.
- Power Outages: Over 27,500 people lost power by 11 p.m., with Sussex being the hardest-hit area.
- Widespread Flooding: Flash flood warnings impacted multiple counties, including Milwaukee, Waukesha, and Ozaukee.
Chronology of the Storm Systems
Early Morning Impact
The volatility began just after midnight on April 14, as thunderstorms swept through Southern and Central Wisconsin. These initial storms resulted in localized damage and early tornado warnings. In East Bristol, the impact was severe; a large portion of the roof of St. Joseph Catholic Church was blown off, scattering insulation, metal, and shingles across nearby fields.
Evening Escalation
A more powerful series of storms arrived in the late afternoon and evening. By 6 p.m., severe weather hit Milwaukee, with conditions persisting through midnight. Meteorologist Kevin Wagner of the National Weather Service in Milwaukee/Sullivan noted that even as the system began with tornado threats, it eventually shifted into a “line” where severe winds became the primary hazard.
Regional Damage and Disruptions
Power Grid and Utility Failures
The storm system caused massive electrical disruptions. According to We Energies, over 27,500 customers were without power by 11 p.m. On April 14. The breakdown of outages included:
- Sussex: Over 3,700 outages (the highest in the region).
- Brookfield: 2,500 outages.
- Milwaukee: Over 2,000 outages.
- Pewaukee: Nearly 1,900 outages.
In the Town of Portland and Waterloo, eight power poles were snapped on East Clarkson Road, and a pine tree downed a three-phase line on Edison Street.
Community and Educational Impact
The severity of the weather forced the closure of several educational institutions. In DeForest, the DeForest Area High School canceled classes due to power disruptions and toppled power lines that closed multiple streets, including Sunset, Cora, Nora, and South Cleveland. The Monona Grove School District closed Granite Ridge and Glacial Drumlin schools.
Flash Flooding and Wind Damage
Flash flood warnings were issued for southeastern Dodge, northwestern Milwaukee, southwestern Ozaukee, southern Washington, and northern Waukesha counties. Reports of flooding were as well documented in Two Rivers, Clintonville, and near Appleton. In Milwaukee, the wind’s intensity caused a billboard to collapse near 27th and Euclid and downed trees near 20th and Greenfield.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where was the confirmed tornado located?
The National Weather Service confirmed a tornado occurred in Sussex, Wisconsin, just before 6:30 p.m. On April 14.
Which areas experienced the most significant power outages?
Sussex experienced the highest number of outages with over 3,700, followed by Brookfield and Milwaukee.
What caused the school closures in DeForest?
Classes were canceled due to power disruptions and the closure of several streets caused by toppled power lines.
Looking Ahead
While the primary storm system moved southeast out of the Milwaukee area by late night on April 14, meteorologists continued to monitor remaining thunderstorms to the west. Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant as the region begins the cleanup process and restores essential utility services.