Strong wind gusts and the chance for storms today 12/15/2021

We are calling today “WINDS”Day due to the gusty afternoon and evening winds that are expected later! Wind gusts outside are currently calm around 30 mph, considering later today we could see twice of that. Temperatures are also mild in the 40s and 50s, so you can leave the coats at home this morning. You won’t need the winter gear later today either, as high temperatures will reach the low 70s! This will easily shatter high temperatures records across the area, but you won’t be able to enjoy the warmth thanks to the wind.

Wind gusts will quickly increase as we head into the afternoon today with gusts around and above 60 mph by the evening. It will be difficult to drive during the evening commute, so PLEASE use extra caution if you have to drive around that time. Now is also the time to secure outdoor items if you haven’t and charge up electronics, just in case you lose power. Power outages are possible and tree damage is likely later today. Wind gusts won’t start to calm down until late this evening and overnight tonight.

On top of the strong wind gusts, scattered thunderstorms are likely this afternoon and evening. The strongest of the storms are expected further east into Iowa this evening, but a line of strong to severe storms will start to form close to Omaha. Even stronger wind gusts within these storms are likely as well as a few tornadoes.

Once the system pushes through, dry air will move into eastern Nebraska. This means any fires that start could be difficult to put out. A Red Flag Warning will go into effect at noon as a result. Avoid using an open flame and parking over grassy surfaces.

Calmer weather arrives for the rest of the week and temperatures cool down a bit to the upper 40s.

Meteorologist Brittany Foster

@BrittFosterWX

bfoster@klkntv.com