Omaha, NE – Two rounds of severe thunderstorms are expected to impact eastern Nebraska, including the Omaha metro, beginning early Thursday morning and continuing into the evening, with large hail, damaging winds, and isolated tornadoes all possible.
According to the National Weather Service in Omaha/Valley, the first wave of storms is expected between 3 a.m. and 8 a.m. Thursday, with a 20–40% chance of development. This round could produce hail over one inch in diameter and gusts over 40 mph. A second, more intense round is forecast from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., when the risk of severe weather increases to 30–50%. Forecasters warn that individual storms during this second window may produce hail over 2 inches, winds exceeding 50 mph, and the potential for isolated tornadoes.
No flooding is currently expected, and the overall tornado threat remains low but not zero, especially in the late-day storms.
Residents in Omaha, Lincoln, Council Bluffs, and surrounding areas are urged to monitor weather updates, have multiple ways to receive warnings, and reconsider any outdoor plans. Emergency kits and shelter locations should be reviewed in case of rapidly changing conditions.
Stay weather aware throughout the day and visit weather.gov/omaha for the latest information.
