The National Weather Service in North Platte is continuing to monitor the possibility of severe weather across much of Nebraska. According to the NWS, severe storms are likely this afternoon and evening.
Main concerns include very large hail (>2.5″ in diameter), damaging wind gusts (>75 MPH), and a few tornadoes (some intense). The threat of severe weather will intensify through the afternoon.
An enhanced to moderate risk of severe thunderstorms is south of a line from Hay Springs, to Thedford, to Sargent. North of this line, to a line from Springview to O’Neill, a slight risk for severe thunderstorms exists.
Isolated to scattered thunderstorms have started to develop and will continue to increase in coverage by late afternoon and early evening. As they track east and northeast into the Sandhills and southwestern Nebraska, they will quickly become severe. This activity will then migrate to the east and northeast through the evening. Supercell thunderstorms will contain very large hail and the threat of tornadoes. Thunderstorms will then become more widespread as they track east into central and eastern Nebraska tonight with the severe threat shifting to heavy rain and damaging winds.
Property damage likely with the strongest storms and power outages possible. Persons planning outdoor activities should closely monitor the weather and be prepared to quickly seek shelter if threatening weather approaches. Always have multiple ways to receive watches and warnings.
