Hastings, NE – Residents in Nebraska are being urged to prepare for possible severe storms Monday evening into the early morning hours of Tuesday. The strongest threat window runs from 7 p.m. until 2 a.m., according to the National Weather Service (NWS) office in Hastings.
According to the NWS, most of central Nebraska will likely see only weak thunderstorms at worst. However, eastern and southern counties face a higher risk of stronger activity, including large hail up to the size of ping pong balls, damaging winds near 60 mph, and locally heavy rainfall that could cause minor flooding.
Forecasters described the setup as “somewhat complex,” with scattered severe development more likely in the southeastern portion of the state. The weather service noted that not everyone in the region will experience severe conditions, but warned that those in the risk zone should remain alert through the night.
The primary hazards include hail, damaging gusts, and heavy downpours, particularly in counties south and east of Hastings, extending toward the Lincoln and Omaha metro areas. Any storms that develop could persist into early Tuesday morning, potentially affecting commuters.
Emergency officials encourage residents to monitor alerts, avoid travel during the storm window if possible, and secure outdoor items that could be blown around by strong winds.
