Severe thunderstorms are expected to affect the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness late this evening through tonight. Severe storms will be capable of producing damaging winds, large to very large hail, frequent cloud-to-ground lightning, and locally heavy rainfall. Thunderstorms could happen as early as 11 PM CDT this evening continuing overnight until around 6 AM CDT Saturday morning. Now is the time to prepare in case thunderstorms threaten. Campers should take extra precautions now in order to secure campsites and make a plan in case of severe weather. For strong winds, try to keep your tent away from large or decayed trees. For large hail, use your well-tied down canoe or tent for shelter. For lightning, sit on your personal floatation devices or sleeping pads and avoid putting your tent on top of exposed tree roots to minimize your risk. For potential flash flooding, avoid camping directly near streams and be prepared to find higher ground. Monitor NOAA Weather Radio for updates and possible warnings. Repeating... Severe thunderstorms are expected to affect the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness late this evening through tonight. The storms will be capable of producing damaging winds, large to very large hail, frequent cloud-to-ground lightning, and locally heavy rainfall. Thunderstorms could happen as early as 11 PM CDT this evening continuing overnight until around 6 AM CDT Saturday morning.