Omaha, Nebraska – Temperatures will climb into the upper 80s by Thursday afternoon, bringing a summerlike stretch of heat across Nebraska and Iowa before a shift toward wetter and more active conditions.
According to the National Weather Service and NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center, both states are in a 70 to 80 percent probability zone for above-normal temperatures from April 16 through April 20. A broad heat dome across the central Plains will dominate early, allowing temperatures to steadily rise through the late week.
In Omaha and across Douglas and Sarpy counties, highs are expected to reach 85 to 88°F between 2 p.m. and 6 p.m., with overnight lows holding in the mid to upper 60s. In Iowa, Des Moines and Polk County will see similar conditions, with highs in the upper 80s under strong sunshine and dry air early in the period.
Along the I-80 corridor from Lincoln through Council Bluffs to Des Moines, increasing southwest winds could gust between 25 and 35 mph at times, accelerating the drying of vegetation and briefly elevating wildfire risk before moisture returns.
The precipitation outlook shows a 40 to 50 percent chance of above-normal rainfall developing between April 18 and April 22. Thunderstorm chances will increase across both states, with the potential for heavy rainfall, gusty winds, and localized flooding, especially in low-lying and urban areas.
Residents should stay hydrated during peak heat, secure loose outdoor items due to increasing winds, and remain weather-aware as storm chances build. Drivers should be alert for sudden wind shifts and reduced visibility during storms.
The most consistent heat is expected through April 18, followed by increasing storm chances into early next week. Additional advisories are likely as this pattern shifts from dry heat to a more active weather setup.
