Omaha, Nebraska – Strong storms are expected to pound parts of Nebraska and western Iowa tonight, bringing 80 mph wind gusts, large hail, and the possibility of isolated tornadoes through midnight.
According to the National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center, a Severe Thunderstorm Watch remains in effect until 12 a.m. CDT Tuesday for areas including Omaha, Grand Island, North Platte, and Sioux City. Storms could initially produce hail up to 3 inches in diameter before evolving into fast-moving lines capable of producing damaging winds.
The watch covers a large swath across Nebraska, northwest Kansas, western Iowa, and a portion of northeast Colorado. Cities such as Norfolk, McCook, Carroll, and Denison are in the warning zone, with impacts likely along I-80 and I-29. The primary hazards include scattered large hail, brief tornadoes, and wind gusts strong enough to knock out power or down trees.
Residents are urged to secure loose outdoor items, avoid travel during storms, and have multiple ways to receive warnings. Schools and hospitals in the watch area number over 1,300 combined, highlighting the potential for wide-ranging disruption.
Storm warnings may be upgraded as conditions evolve. Additional alerts could be issued into early Tuesday morning.
