Hastings, Nebraska – Heavy rainfall is expected to drench south-central Nebraska and north-central Kansas through Sunday morning, with flash flooding a growing concern across the region. Some areas could see over 4 inches of rain, particularly where slow-moving thunderstorms train over the same locations.
According to the National Weather Service in Hastings, a Flood Watch remains in effect until at least Sunday morning for counties including Adams, Hall, Buffalo, and York in Nebraska, and Smith, Phillips, and Jewell in Kansas. Widespread scattered thunderstorms developing Saturday into early Sunday could unleash high rainfall rates in a short period of time.
Low-lying roads, especially near creeks and underpasses, may quickly become impassable. Drivers in areas like Kearney, Grand Island, and Superior should avoid travel through flooded zones. Local emergency managers urge residents to have cell phones charged, avoid camping near rivers, and not to drive through water-covered roads.
Localized flooding could impact key highways including US-281, I-80 near Grand Island, and smaller rural routes prone to overflow.
The heaviest rainfall is expected through Saturday night, but saturated ground could continue to pose risks into early Sunday. Additional alerts may follow as storms evolve overnight.
