Omaha, Nebraska – Residents across Nebraska should prepare for a round of thunderstorms Tuesday that could quickly become severe, bringing damaging winds and large hail before warmer weather returns later in the week.
According to the National Weather Service offices in Omaha and Hastings, thunderstorm chances will increase late Monday night and continue through Tuesday. A cluster of storms is expected to move northwest to southeast across the state during the morning and afternoon hours, with some storms becoming strong to severe.
The greatest severe weather threat extends across portions of central and south-central Nebraska, including communities near Kearney, Grand Island, Hastings, Holdrege, North Platte and areas along Interstate 80. Forecasters indicate the strongest storms may produce wind gusts approaching 70 mph and hail up to the size of half dollars.
While tornado potential remains very low, the combination of large hail and damaging winds could create hazardous travel conditions, particularly for high-profile vehicles on east-west roadways. Brief heavy rainfall and frequent lightning are also expected with stronger thunderstorms.
Temperatures Tuesday will remain relatively mild, with highs ranging from the lower 70s to upper 70s across much of eastern Nebraska, including Omaha and Lincoln. Conditions improve Wednesday as clouds decrease and warmer air returns, pushing highs into the mid-70s to lower 80s.
Residents are encouraged to monitor weather alerts Tuesday morning and afternoon, especially if traveling across central Nebraska. Additional Severe Thunderstorm Watches or Warnings may be issued as storms organize and move across the state.
