Omaha, Neb. – Residents across northeast Nebraska should be prepared for rapidly developing thunderstorms this evening as a few storms could become severe with damaging wind gusts, frequent lightning and brief periods of heavy rainfall. The strongest storms are expected to move into the region during the evening hours, creating hazardous travel conditions and the potential for isolated power outages.
According to the National Weather Service in Omaha/Valley, the greatest risk for severe thunderstorms is across northeast Nebraska, with the highest confidence centered in the brighter red-shaded corridor extending through communities such as O’Neill, Bloomfield and areas west of Norfolk. Storms are expected to develop and move east between 6 p.m. and 10 p.m. CDT, with the greatest threat shifting east through the evening.
The primary hazard will be isolated wind gusts between 60 and 80 mph, strong enough to down tree limbs, damage power lines and create difficult driving conditions for high-profile vehicles. Frequent cloud-to-ground lightning will accompany the storms, while brief heavy rainfall may reduce visibility on highways, including portions of U.S. Highway 20 and nearby roadways.
Communities including Norfolk, O’Neill, Bloomfield, Albion and surrounding northeast Nebraska should monitor weather conditions closely. While not every location will experience severe weather, any storm that intensifies could produce damaging conditions with little warning.
Anyone with outdoor plans should be ready to move indoors as storms approach. Have multiple ways to receive weather warnings, secure loose outdoor items, and know where to take shelter if a Severe Thunderstorm Warning is issued. Additional warnings may be needed this evening as storms track across northeast Nebraska.
