Multiple rounds of thunderstorms will move across eastern Nebraska and western Iowa from Thursday night into Friday morning. Damaging winds and localized flash flooding will be the primary threats.
By Hola Nebraska
A line of strong thunderstorms will move across eastern Nebraska Thursday night before continuing into western Iowa early Friday morning.
The storms could produce damaging wind gusts, heavy rainfall, frequent lightning and small hail. Multiple storms moving across the same locations could also lead to localized flash flooding.
The greatest risk will begin Thursday evening and continue overnight. A few of the strongest storms could produce wind gusts of 60 mph or higher, particularly as the line moves out of northeastern Nebraska.
Omaha has an 80% chance of rain overnight
Omaha has an 80% chance of precipitation Thursday night. Showers and thunderstorms will be most widespread before 2:00 a.m., although some rain could continue beyond 4:00 a.m.
Between three-quarters of an inch and 1 inch of rain is expected in the city. Higher amounts will be possible beneath the strongest thunderstorms.
Storms are also expected in Lincoln, Norfolk and other eastern Nebraska communities. In western Iowa, Council Bluffs, Glenwood, Harlan and Red Oak could receive heavy rain Thursday night or early Friday.
The severe weather threat should begin to decrease between 4:00 and 5:00 a.m. Friday, but weaker showers and thunderstorms could remain in the area during the morning.
Damaging winds and localized flooding are the main threats
The strongest wind gusts could bring down tree branches, blow unsecured objects across yards or streets and cause isolated power outages. Residents should secure patio furniture, trash cans and other outdoor items before the storms arrive.
Heavy rain can quickly reduce visibility on roads and collect in underpasses, low-lying areas and streets with poor drainage.
Drivers should never attempt to cross a flooded road. Water can be deeper than it appears, particularly at night, and the pavement underneath may be damaged or washed away.
The storms will arrive only a few weeks after damaging winds, hail and heavy rain threatened Fourth of July events across Nebraska.
How to prepare before the storms arrive
Residents in the affected area should keep emergency alerts enabled on their phones and have another reliable way to receive weather information overnight.
If a severe thunderstorm warning is issued, move inside a sturdy building and remain in an interior room away from windows. Anyone outdoors should seek shelter as soon as thunder is heard.
A severe thunderstorm watch means conditions are favorable for dangerous storms to develop. A warning means severe weather is occurring or about to occur and immediate action is necessary.
Current forecasts and active weather alerts are available through the National Weather Service office serving eastern Nebraska and western Iowa.
Cooler weather will arrive Friday
Rain will gradually decrease Friday. Omaha will retain a 30% chance of precipitation during the day, mainly before 4:00 p.m.
Temperatures will fall slightly behind the storm system. Friday’s highs will range from the upper 70s to lower 80s across much of the region. Northerly winds could produce gusts near 30 mph during the afternoon.
Dry and mostly sunny weather is expected Saturday, with highs in the low to mid-80s.
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