Hastings, Nebraska – Strong to severe thunderstorms are battering southern Nebraska this evening, threatening drivers and residents from Holdrege to Beatrice with damaging hail, winds, and heavy downpours.
According to the National Weather Service in Hastings, storms capable of producing golf ball-size hail, wind gusts over 60 mph, and intense rainfall are developing rapidly across the southern tier of the state as of 4:35 p.m. CDT. Warnings extend along Highway 136 from Franklin to Hebron, with the heaviest cells currently moving through Superior and toward Marysville, Kansas.
Emergency managers urge residents in Kearney, Hastings, and York to secure outdoor items and prepare for sudden power outages. Roadways including U.S. 281 and Highway 81 may become hazardous from hail accumulation and localized flooding, particularly in low-lying spots and rural areas.
Travelers should delay non-essential trips, avoid flooded roads, and seek sturdy shelter if warnings are issued. This round of storms comes amid one of the most active July storm patterns in recent years for the region.
Thunderstorm threats are expected to persist through late Monday night. Stay tuned for updates and additional advisories from local emergency officials as conditions evolve.
