North Platte, Nebraska – Strong storms are bearing down on western Nebraska Wednesday afternoon, with residents across 18 counties urged to prepare for damaging winds and large hail through 9 p.m. MDT. Key highways and rural roads in Arthur, Dawes, Cherry, and Sheridan counties could see hazardous conditions as thunderstorms intensify.
According to the National Weather Service’s Storm Prediction Center, a Severe Thunderstorm Watch remains in effect for much of the region—including Blaine, Box Butte, Sioux, Rock, and Grant counties—until 9 p.m. MDT. Hail up to the size of quarters and wind gusts topping 60 mph are possible in the watch area. Utility outages and downed tree limbs may occur, especially along Highway 20 and secondary routes in northern Nebraska.
Local emergency management advises staying indoors and away from windows during storms. Drivers are urged to avoid unnecessary travel, as visibility could drop quickly during downpours or hail. Residents in towns like Valentine, Alliance, and Rushville should secure outdoor items and prepare for possible power interruptions.
Storms are expected to move eastward through the evening. Additional warnings or advisories may follow if conditions worsen. Stay tuned to local media and NOAA Weather Radio for updates.
