Severe Storms Hit Area on Friday

Saturday, April 18th, 2026 -- 6:34 AM

For the third time in less than a week, Central Wisconsin once again faced some intense weather. After several areas reported heavy rain, hail, tree and vehicle damage on Monday, and high water through the early part of the week, Friday afternoon and evening saw the most intense storms with several tornados, hail and damage reports.

Jackson County officials stated that an area south of Hatfield along County Highway K received extensive damage from a tornado. Several trees were downed and some structures were damaged. There was also damage reported in the northern part of the county near the Fairchild area.

A tornado was also reported near Ringle, northeast of Wausau. Structures were damaged and well as electrical infrastucture. WPS reports over 500 customers still without power as of 6:30 am his morning.

National Weather Service crews from LaCrosse and Green Bay will be out surveying damage today.

East Central Wisconsin counties will continue to face issues with high water as the Yellow River and Wisconsin Rivers are at or near flood stage in some areas.

Feel free to contact us with questions and/or comments.