The Omaha area and southeastern Nebraska experienced severe weather last Friday evening, as thunderstorm warnings led to flash flooding from Omaha to Lincoln. Viewers shared striking images and videos of hail and rain, with hail reported in different sizes ranging from pea-sized to golf ball-sized. Viewers recorded hailstorms in different locations including Plattsmouth, Papillion, Elmwood, and Treynor.
Flash Flood Warnings Issued for Omaha Metro Area
The flash flood warning for the Omaha metro area has been allowed to expire, but some minor flooding may continue through midnight. Additional rainfall totals will be on the light side. Pockets of heavy rain are pushing back into the Omaha metro with frequent lightning. A flash flood warning remains in effect for the Omaha metro until 10:30 pm. A new flash flood warning also remains in effect for northwestern Mills, southwestern Pottawattamie, and northeastern Sarpy counties through midnight.
Severe Thunderstorm Warning in Effect
A severe thunderstorm warning is currently in effect for eastern Johnson, northwestern Nemaha, and central Otoe Counties, in place until 9:45 pm. Additionally, a severe thunderstorm watch has been issued for southeast Nebraska and southwest Iowa through midnight. Although the National Weather Service has dropped the severe thunderstorm watch for Douglas, Sarpy and Gage counties, a severe thunderstorm warning is still in effect for portions of the Omaha metro until 7 pm.
Safety Plan during Severe Weather
The Bellevue residents witnessed lightning strikes near Offutt Air Force Base, highlighting the need to have a safety plan in place during severe weather. The local authorities urge people to stay indoors during such occurrences unless it is necessary to go outside. It is advised to switch off all electrical appliances and avoid using them until the severe weather passes.
Blustery and Chilly Weekend on the Way
A blustery and chilly weekend is on the way behind the cold front. Temperatures will fall into the mid-40s by Saturday morning with northwest winds gusting to 35mph. Rain will redevelop by midday on Saturday, with on and off rain showers likely for the afternoon and early evening making for a very unpleasant day to be outdoors. The rain moves out of the metro by evening but will linger over central Iowa into early Sunday. Sunny skies return to the Omaha area by late morning.
In conclusion, severe thunderstorms with hail and rain hit the Omaha area and southeastern Nebraska, prompting a flash flood warning and severe thunderstorm warning in certain areas. Although they have both been allowed to expire, some minor flooding may continue through midnight. People are urged to take precautionary measures during such weather conditions to avoid any potential harm or accidents.
Image Source: Wikimedia Commons
