Omaha, Nebraska – Nebraska is expected to transition into a hotter and more active weather pattern between July 23 and July 27, with above-normal temperatures combining with increasing Gulf moisture to bring several rounds of showers and thunderstorms across the state. The pattern will feature warm, humid afternoons followed by periodic thunderstorm development, with some storms capable of producing heavy rainfall, gusty winds and localized flooding.
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Climate Prediction Center, in its 6-10 Day Outlook issued July 17, Nebraska is favored to experience above-normal temperatures during the July 23-27 period. The state is also included in an area favoring above-normal precipitation, indicating a greater likelihood of widespread rainfall and thunderstorm activity than is typical for late July.
In Omaha, temperatures are expected to rise above seasonal averages as southerly winds transport warm, humid air into eastern Nebraska. Heat index values will climb during the afternoon before scattered thunderstorms develop later in the day and into the evening. Some storms could produce torrential rainfall, frequent lightning and strong wind gusts, creating brief travel disruptions on Interstates 80, 680 and 480 during periods of heavy rain.
Just southwest, Lincoln is expected to experience similar conditions, with above-average temperatures and repeated opportunities for thunderstorms throughout the five-day period. While not every location will receive rainfall each day, stronger storms may produce localized flooding in poor drainage areas along with brief reductions in visibility for motorists. Outdoor events, agricultural operations and construction projects could see interruptions as thunderstorms move through.
The warmer and wetter pattern is expected to extend across the Cornhusker State, including Grand Island, Kearney, Norfolk, North Platte, Columbus, Hastings, Scottsbluff and Fremont. Agricultural areas may benefit from the added moisture after periods of summer heat, although repeated heavy downpours could leave standing water in low-lying fields and temporarily slow field work.
Although the Climate Prediction Center outlook does not pinpoint the exact timing or location of individual thunderstorms, confidence continues to increase that Nebraska will remain in a warmer-than-normal and wetter-than-normal pattern through July 27. Residents should stay hydrated during the afternoon heat, remain alert for rapidly developing thunderstorms, and monitor National Weather Service forecasts for updated severe thunderstorm watches, warnings and localized flood advisories.
