Omaha, NE – Residents across eastern Nebraska and southwest Iowa should stay weather-aware Sunday evening as isolated strong to severe thunderstorms could develop, bringing the potential for damaging wind gusts and localized power outages.
According to the National Weather Service in Omaha/Valley, confidence remains uncertain on storm development, but any thunderstorms that form Sunday evening could become strong to severe. The primary hazard is damaging straight-line winds with gusts reaching 60 to 65 mph.
Forecasters place much of eastern Nebraska and portions of southwest Iowa under a Level 1 of 5 (Marginal Risk) for severe weather. While widespread severe storms are not expected, isolated storms could still produce enough wind to down tree limbs and power lines, potentially leading to scattered power outages.
The overall chance for rain and thunderstorms is 10% to 30%, with the probability of severe weather remaining relatively low at 5% to 15%. The greatest threat is expected during the late afternoon through Sunday evening, with conditions improving by around midnight.
The National Weather Service recommends securing loose outdoor furniture, trash cans, and other lightweight items before storms develop. Residents should also have multiple ways to receive weather warnings in case storms intensify quickly.
Even though storm coverage is expected to be isolated, officials stress that any storm capable of producing damaging winds can create hazardous travel conditions and localized damage.
Stay tuned to the latest forecasts Sunday, as the timing and coverage of storms may change if atmospheric conditions become more favorable for severe weather.
