Omaha, NE – After a brief break in active weather, thunderstorms are expected to return to eastern Nebraska and western Iowa on Thursday, bringing the potential for severe weather and heavy rainfall.
According to the National Weather Service in Omaha/Valley, a Level 1 of 5 (Marginal Risk) for severe weather has been issued for much of eastern Nebraska and portions of western Iowa on Thursday, July 30.
Forecasters say scattered thunderstorms are expected to develop during the afternoon before organizing into a cluster of storms that will move east across the region during the evening and overnight hours.
The strongest storms could produce damaging wind gusts, quarter-size hail, and torrential rainfall. Localized flooding is also possible where heavy rain falls in a short period of time.
The National Weather Service indicates the greatest threat is expected between approximately 4 p.m. and midnight, with storm intensity gradually decreasing into the overnight hours.
While not everyone will experience severe weather, residents are encouraged to monitor updated forecasts throughout Thursday, especially if they have outdoor plans. Officials recommend having multiple ways to receive weather warnings and knowing where to seek shelter if severe thunderstorm warnings are issued.
The Weather Prediction Center also highlights the potential for excessive rainfall in parts of the region, meaning isolated flash flooding cannot be ruled out where storms repeatedly move over the same locations.
Residents should continue checking forecasts as the storm system approaches, as the timing and severity of individual storms may change over the next 24 to 48 hours.
