Severe storms expected across Nebraska on Thursday

Strong storms are starting in central Nebraska already this afternoon. A current discussion for the area shaded in red below from the Storm Prediction Center explains a Tornado Watch is expected within the next hour.

There is a Slight (Level 2 of 5) risk across central and eastern Nebraska for strong and severe thunderstorms to develop as early as Thursday afternoon. These will develop along a strong cold front and sweep from west to east through Thursday evening. All modes of severe weather are possible.

The risk for a few tornadoes is there, especially in the areas shaded in brown below. Watch storms to develop and rapidly intensify with tornadoes possible by Thursday afternoon.

Large hail is also a possibility with these storms. Hail up to 1.5″ in diameter is expected to accompany these storms.

Below is the risk for damaging winds across central and eastern Nebraska, especially. Gusts up to 70 mph are possible as this line claers the state late Thursday night.

A low is deepening on the western side of the state, and it will be responsible for a cold front strong enough for severe storms to be expected on Thursday. Storms should be moving into eastern Nebraska by Thursday evening. The closer window for Lincoln seems to be from about 7-9 p.m. for this line to move in. All severe weather should be cleared by about 11 p.m.

The heaviest rainfall should happen in areas north of I-80. The farther north you go, closer to the South Dakota border, the chances increase for 2-3″ to be seen with storms on Thursday.

Expect showers to linger into Friday, with high winds expected. For now, have a plan in place and be weather aware through Thursday night. Stay tuned to the Storm Alert Team for the latest.

Meteorologist Jessica Blum 
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