Omaha, Nebraska – Drivers and residents across eastern Nebraska should prepare now as severe thunderstorms are expected to develop by mid-afternoon Friday, bringing the risk of damaging winds and large hail during peak travel hours.
According to the National Weather Service in Omaha/Valley, storms will begin forming after noon, with the greatest threat between 3 p.m. and 8 p.m., especially along and east of the Missouri River. Areas including Omaha, Bellevue, Council Bluffs, and Lincoln sit within a slight risk zone, with a 40 to 80 percent chance of storms and a 5 to 20 percent chance that any storm could turn severe.
Wind gusts could reach 65 to 75 mph, strong enough to down tree limbs and cause scattered power outages. Hail up to 1.75 inches in diameter is possible, along with a low but present tornado risk. The highest threat zone extends into western Iowa, including Des Moines and surrounding communities.
Travel along I-80 and I-29 could be impacted by sudden downpours and reduced visibility. Residents are urged to secure outdoor items, monitor alerts, and identify safe shelter locations ahead of storm development.
Storms are expected to weaken later Friday night, but additional updates or warnings may be issued as conditions evolve.
