If you’re anywhere near Omaha or traveling along the I-80 corridor in eastern Nebraska, now’s a good time to start planning for some potentially rough weather Thursday night. The forecast is pointing toward strong thunderstorms, with a real risk of large hail and damaging winds rolling in during the evening hours.
Thursday Starts Off Quiet — But It Won’t Stay That Way
The day will begin on a relatively calm note. There might be a few light showers or a rumble of thunder in the early morning, but nothing too intense. It’s the kind of unsettled weather that hints at something bigger brewing.
By the afternoon, temperatures will climb into the low 80s and winds will start picking up. It’ll feel warm and a bit humid — the perfect setup for storms later in the day.
Storms Expected to Fire Up After 5 PM
Once we hit the late afternoon and early evening, conditions become much more favorable for strong to severe thunderstorms. That’s when things could get dicey.
Here’s what forecasters are keeping an eye on:
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Large hail — Some hailstones could be bigger than golf balls, which can cause serious damage to vehicles, roofs, and landscaping.
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Strong winds — Wind gusts could bring down branches, scatter debris, and even knock out power in a few places.
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Tornado potential — While not the main threat, there’s still a chance that an isolated tornado could spin up.
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Lightning and heavy rain — These storms will likely bring plenty of lightning and fast-falling rain, reducing visibility and making travel hazardous.
If You’re Driving Along I-80, Be Extra Cautious
Anyone planning to travel along I-80, especially near Omaha, should consider adjusting their plans. Driving through heavy rain, hail, and gusty winds is dangerous, particularly once it gets dark. If possible, get where you need to be before the evening storms arrive.
How to Get Ready
Here’s a quick checklist to make sure you’re prepared:
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Secure or bring in anything that could blow around, like patio furniture or trash bins.
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Move your car under cover or into a garage if you can to avoid hail damage.
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Charge your phone and any backup batteries in case of a power outage.
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Keep your weather alerts on and check for updates throughout the day.
Looking Past the Storms
Once the front passes through, the weather takes a cooler turn. Friday will bring much lower temperatures, with highs in the upper 50s, and there’s a chance for more rain showers over the weekend. Easter Sunday might be a bit damp too, so indoor backup plans wouldn’t hurt.
This is typical springtime in Nebraska — one moment it’s sunny and warm, the next we’re bracing for severe storms. Thursday night could bring some real weather trouble, so don’t get caught off guard. Stay alert, take precautions, and keep an eye on changing conditions as we head into the evening.
