Lincoln, Nebraska – Severe thunderstorms are barreling across Nebraska this evening, with more than 40 counties under a Severe Thunderstorm Watch until midnight. High winds up to 70 mph, large hail, and torrential rain threaten travel and utilities from Grand Island to Norfolk and York.
According to the National Weather Service’s Storm Prediction Center, the watch remains in effect until 12 a.m. CDT for counties including Adams, Buffalo, Hall, Lincoln, Platte, and more. Emergency managers warn residents to seek sturdy shelter as fast-moving storms sweep across central and eastern Nebraska. Power outages, downed trees, and flooded roadways are likely, especially along I-80 and U.S. Highway 81.
Communities like Hastings, Kearney, and Columbus could see brief but intense periods of hail, blinding rain, and dangerous lightning through late tonight. Area school districts and local officials urge residents to charge devices, stay indoors, and avoid non-essential travel until the threat passes. If you’re driving, pull over in a safe area—visibility may drop rapidly as storms move through.
This is Nebraska’s most widespread severe weather event of July, with impacts stretching from the Kansas border north to Antelope and Holt counties. Similar summer outbreaks last year led to multi-hour outages and road closures. Stay tuned to local weather alerts and prepare for changing conditions.
Storm warnings remain in effect for much of Nebraska through early Thursday. Additional alerts or watches could follow if storms intensify or expand.
