NORTH PLATTE – The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and National Weather Service (NWS) have issued a release reminding the state’s residents that this week, March 27 through 31, is Nebraska Severe Weather Awareness Week, with Wednesday’s focus on tornados.
Last year, according to the NOAA and NWS, roughly 30 tornadoes spun through the state, with the highest numbers in early spring. Surprisingly, according to the National Weather Service, Nebraska has recorded at least one tornado during each month of the year since official records have been kept.
Both weather-watching organizations have reported that thankfully, last year’s tornado numbers are significantly lower than the 30-year average of 49; 2022’s total number of twisters was 26, with 10 of those, nearly 40%, touching down in April.
The NOAA and National Weather Service have offered tips to stay safe during a nearby tornado, which includes finding shelter in a sturdy building, ideally at its lowest point, which may be a cellar or basement, or at the very least, an interior room. If outdoors, a ditch or low-lying area is preferable. A vehicle is not considered safe in such conditions.
Residents are also reminded that they can use social media platforms to keep both the weather services and their community informed about area tornado activity by tagging the National Weather Service’s local office in their posts.
As a part of Wednesday’s spotlight on tornados, a statewide tornado drill is scheduled for 10 a.m.
The conclusion of Nebraska’s Severe Weather Week will be Friday, with an emphasis on flash floods.
