Omaha, NE — Thunderstorms are expected to develop across eastern Nebraska Thursday evening, with severe weather likely through 10 p.m. Large hail, damaging winds, and isolated tornadoes remain the primary concerns.
According to the National Weather Service Omaha/Valley office, storms are forecast to initiate between 5 and 6 p.m. in northeast Nebraska, moving eastward throughout the evening. Affected cities include Omaha, Lincoln, Norfolk, Columbus, and Council Bluffs. The area is under a Level 3 (Enhanced Risk) designation, with a 40% to 70% chance of thunderstorms and a 30% to 40% chance of severe activity.
Hail up to 2 to 3 inches in diameter, wind gusts reaching 70 mph, and the possibility of a couple tornadoes are the main hazards. No flooding is anticipated. Areas south of I-80 may or may not see severe development, depending on storm movement later in the day.
Residents are urged to have multiple ways to receive warnings and to remain weather-aware if they have outdoor plans. Those in mobile homes or vulnerable structures should be ready to seek shelter quickly. The threat window closes by 10 p.m., but storms could rapidly intensify before then.
