Platte County confirms second fatality from flooding in Columbus area

The Platte County Sheriff’s Office released Monday that 80-year-old Betty Hamernik, of rural Columbus, died due to flooding. 

They were told Hamernik was trapped in her house with rising floodwaters from the Loup River on Thursday.

Lincoln’s rapid water rescue team attempted to rescue her by water but due to the fast water current, high waves and strong winds, they couldn’t reach her home. 

The Nebraska National Guard helicopter also attempted to rescue her but couldn’t because of the weather conditions. 

He Nebraska National Guard tried again on Friday morning and were able to get into her home where they found Hamernik deceased. 

The Platte County Sheriff’s Office said the investigation is ongoing.