LIVING HERE
Severe storms can come with little warning.
Wisconsin averages 23 tornadoes per year, with most tornadoes occurring from mid-afternoon into the early evening. From 1980-2025 (as of April 8, 2025), there have been 63 confirmed weather/climate disaster events with losses exceeding $1 billion each to affect Wisconsin. These events included 9 drought events, 5 flooding events, 1 freeze event, 44 severe storm events, and 4 winter storm events. Our severe weather season starts in April and becomes very active from May through August. June is the peak of the tornado season here in Wisconsin. One important concern is the difference between a tornado or storm watch and warning. A watch indicates a possibility, while a warning indicates an actual or imminent threat.
A warning is more severe than a watch because it indicates an immediate threat. A watch encourages preparedness, while a warning requires immediate action. Watches cover larger areas, while warnings are more localized. No matter what type of watch is issued, such as a severe thunderstorm watch or a tornado watch, everyone is urged to be prepared to act quickly. When a tornado threatens, taking immediate action can prevent injury or harm. Stay away from windows, doors, and outside walls, and protect your head. Most tornado damage is caused by violent winds, and many injuries and deaths result from flying debris. Thunderstorms are usually brief; even squall lines pass in a few hours. Stay indoors. Consult the radio, television, and weather alert radios for National Weather Service bulletins. When a thunderstorm threatens, go inside a home or large building, or inside an all-metal (not convertible) vehicle. Avoid using the telephone, except for emergencies.
The “average” Wisconsin tornado has a 7-10 minute duration, a path length of 4-6 miles, and a damage width of about 120 yards. If you are safe, make sure those around you are not in danger or if they need help. It can take time for first responders to reach a disaster site, and you may be the help until they arrive.
Prep your spell book and pack your rope because on the 51st anniversary of Dungeons & Dragons.
You can travel to Horticultural Hall in Lake Geneva, the site of the very first GenCon in 1974. It is also the birthplace of D&D creator Gary Gygax, to partake in a very special session of the world’s most famous tabletop roleplaying game. Immerse yourself in a brand-new 5e module, Wisconsin Adventures: Dreams & Nightmares, where you’ll make countless memories (and even more ability checks). Explore the mysteries of Hamilton’s Tower or brave the narrow confines of Witches Gulch as you check for traps, cure wounds, and sneak (…or Rage) your way to victory. The Wisconsin Historical Society will introduce the game with a brief presentation on the history of Dungeons & Dragons, led by Society author-educator Kurt Griesemer. After an hour break, where guests can feel free to get lunch and stretch their legs, the fun really starts with the 4-hour gaming experience beginning at noon.
All guests will receive a hard copy of the module Wisconsin Adventures: Dreams & Nightmares for participating in the event, don’t worry, that’s considered a Free Action. Special commemorative dice, additional gaming modules, and more will also be available for purchase. Not an avid role player? Not a problem! Spectators can join in on the fun, too, by attending the presentation and watching players thwart challenges in-game. Although the session might be nail-biting to watch, you won’t have to make any Constitution saving throws … but the party wizard casting Hold Person on a Badger State cryptid might. The cost is $25 per person (spectator price) and a $10 add-on per person to join the campaign.
