Omaha, NE – Conditions across eastern Nebraska and southwest Iowa are favorable for the development of weak funnel clouds and small hail Friday afternoon. While these funnel clouds are typically harmless, they can briefly touch down and produce wind gusts exceeding 50 mph, according to the National Weather Service.
The threat will persist through 7 p.m. Friday, with the potential for brief, weak funnels to form in several counties, including Omaha, Lincoln, Council Bluffs, and Fremont. In addition to funnel clouds, isolated storms may bring small hail.
As the storms move through, residents in the affected areas are urged to stay alert. “If you spot a funnel cloud, immediately seek shelter indoors and report the sighting to the National Weather Service,” the NWS advised. While this event is not expected to escalate into a full tornado, a tornado warning could be issued if conditions change.
Impacts will mainly affect travelers on the roads and could cause brief disruptions. Authorities recommend staying indoors and avoiding unnecessary travel during the peak of the storms.
As the storms pass, the threat should diminish by 7 p.m., but additional weather alerts may follow if conditions worsen. Stay tuned to local weather updates for the latest information.