Omaha, Nebraska – Dangerous heat will continue across eastern Nebraska and southwest Iowa today as heat index values climb as high as 115 degrees, while strong to severe thunderstorms later this evening could bring destructive wind gusts of 75 mph or greater to parts of the region.
According to the National Weather Service in Omaha/Valley, an Extreme Heat Warning remains in effect through Monday for much of eastern Nebraska. Heat index values are expected to range from 105 to 115 degrees, with a few locations approaching 118 degrees. Omaha could reach a heat index of 111 degrees today, while Lincoln is forecast near 112 degrees, Columbus 112 degrees, Fremont 109 degrees, Norfolk 109 degrees, Beatrice 109 degrees and Nebraska City 110 degrees.
Forecasters are also monitoring a 20% to 30% chance for thunderstorms developing after 4 p.m., primarily north of the Platte River. If storms form, they are expected to become severe, with damaging wind gusts of 75 mph or higher posing the greatest threat. Isolated large hail is also possible. The highest storm potential is expected from the early evening through around midnight, with communities including Norfolk, West Point, Columbus, Tekamah and areas toward the South Dakota and Iowa borders facing the greatest risk.
Residents should avoid strenuous outdoor activity during the hottest part of the afternoon, stay hydrated, take frequent breaks in air-conditioned spaces and check on vulnerable family members, neighbors and pets. Anyone in areas threatened by storms should have multiple ways to receive weather warnings and be prepared to move to sturdy shelter quickly if severe weather develops.
Heat will begin to ease by Tuesday as temperatures trend lower, but dangerous conditions will persist through Monday. Additional heat-related and severe thunderstorm watches or warnings may be issued as conditions evolve.
Five-Day Forecast for Omaha, Nebraska
- Sunday: Heat index 111°. Dangerous heat with a slight chance of severe thunderstorms late.
- Monday: Heat index 110°. Extreme heat continues with storm chances lingering.
- Tuesday: High temperatures ease with heat index near 98°.
- Wednesday: High temperatures continue to moderate with heat index near 98°.
