The peak hours of occurrence are between 3 p.m. and 9 p.m. with 5 p.m. being the most favored time for tornadoes to develop. Roughly three-fourths of Wisconsin tornadoes occur between 3 p.m. and 9 p.m. On average Wisconsin sees 20 tornadoes a year with an average of one fatality each year due to tornado-related injuries. Our Safety During this time of year, your safety depends on you being alert and cautious. Be sure that you understand the difference between a tornado watch and warning.
Many people confuse watches and warnings.
Now is a good time to review the difference before severe weather hits. It is also a good time to make sure that you know what county you live in. The National Weather Service issues warnings on a county basis. Keep abreast of the current watches and warnings from a NOAA weather radio, local TV or radio stations or cable stations. The National Weather Service issues a watch to give you advance notice that the development of tornadoes is possible in your area.