Grand Island, Neb. – Flash flooding is possible across central and eastern Nebraska by Wednesday night as heavy thunderstorms begin dumping several inches of rain on already saturated ground.
According to the National Weather Service in Hastings and Omaha/Valley, a Flood Watch is in effect from 3 p.m. Wednesday through at least Thursday morning across a wide swath of the state, including Buffalo, Dawson, Platte, Knox, and Burt counties. Some areas, including Kearney, Norfolk, and Columbus, could see 2 to 6 inches of rainfall, with isolated higher totals.
In Grand Island, Lexington, and Holdrege, rainfall rates may reach up to 2 inches per hour during peak thunderstorm activity Wednesday evening. Emergency officials warn that rivers and streams could rise rapidly, especially in low-lying or urban areas with poor drainage. Drivers are urged to avoid flooded roads and watch for sudden closures along U.S. Highways 30 and 281.
Soils remain saturated from recent storms, increasing the risk of flash flooding. Residents are advised to secure basement valuables, keep phones charged, and stay weather-aware through local alerts.
The Flood Watch remains in effect through Thursday afternoon in northeast Nebraska and western Iowa, including Monona County. Additional warnings may follow as storm tracks evolve.
