A severe thunderstorm warning was upgraded to a tornado warning Monday afternoon, according to the National Weather Service. The tornado warning was initially in effect until 4:45 p.m. before being extended to 5:30 p.m., and the sirens were sounded two separate times.

Shortly after 5 p.m., a funnel cloud was reportedly spotted east of Ellendale. Freeborn County Sheriff Kurt Freitag said the Weather Service confirmed a tornado briefly touched down near Maple Island and was witnessed by a trained spotter. No significant damage has been reported as of this time.

At 4:08 p.m., a severe thunderstorm capable of producing a tornado was located over Hartland, or 10 miles northwest of Albert Lea, moving east at 25 mph. It was expected to be near Clarks Grove around 4:25 p.m., Geneva around 4:35 p.m. and Hollandale around 5 p.m., including along portions of Interstate 35, with Manchester possibly being affected as well.

Out of precaution, those in affected areas with severe weather should move to a basement or an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building. Avoid windows. If outdoors, in a mobile home or in a vehicle, move to the closest substantial shelter and protect yourself from flying debris, the Weather Service stated.

Another heavy round of rain forecast for this afternoon and evening prompted a flash flood watch in effect through late Monday night for portions of southern Minnesota, including Freeborn, Steele, Waseca, Fairbault and Blue Earth counties. One to 3 inches of rain is expected in some areas, with isolated amounts near 5 inches possible. Flash flooding is possible along area streams, as well as in urban and low-lying areas.

Periods of thunderstorms are expected through the rest of this week. The potential for severe weather from Tuesday on is low at this time, but heavy rainfall will be a continued threat.

Look to the Tribune for more information as it becomes available.