A round of potentially strong thunderstorms is forecast to impact eastern Nebraska on Sunday afternoon and evening, with cities like Omaha, Lincoln, Fremont, and Norfolk all in the risk zone. While not every location will see severe weather, the storms that do develop could bring damaging winds and large hail, especially during the late-day hours.
Severe Storms Possible Sunday Evening
The National Weather Service in Omaha reports a 20% to 50% chance of thunderstorm activity developing late Sunday, with a 5% to 10% risk of storms becoming severe.
Main threats include:
Wind gusts up to 60 mph
Hail up to quarter size
Brief heavy rainfall
Localized reduced visibility
Although the tornado risk is low, the combination of wind and hail could still lead to damage — especially to vehicles, outdoor furniture, and crops.
Areas Most at Risk
Residents in the following areas should stay weather-aware throughout the day:
Omaha
Lincoln
Fremont
Norfolk
Communities along Interstate 80 and Highway 77
Travelers should use extra caution during the evening hours, as gusty winds and sudden downpours may reduce visibility and create hazardous driving conditions.
Precautionary Tips for Sunday Evening
To stay safe and avoid storm-related damage, keep these simple steps in mind:
Secure or bring in outdoor items like patio furniture, umbrellas, or trash bins
Avoid unnecessary travel during active thunderstorms
Monitor NOAA Weather Radio, weather apps, or local news alerts
Keep phones charged in case of power outages
While the storms will likely be scattered, those that turn strong could develop quickly, so it’s best to prepare in advance.
Unsettled Weather May Continue Into Next Week
Even after Sunday night, the weather pattern remains unstable across Nebraska. The chance of additional storms continues into early next week, although details will become clearer as forecasts are updated.
Storm Timeline for Eastern Nebraska
| Time Period | Expected Conditions | Risk Level |
|---|---|---|
| Sunday Morning | Mostly dry, warm | Low |
| Sunday Afternoon | Isolated thunderstorm development | Moderate |
| Sunday Evening | Scattered storms, some may be severe | Elevated |
| Overnight Sunday | Lingering showers/storms possible | Moderate |
| Monday | Unsettled, storm chances continue | Low to Medium |
Eastern Nebraska is facing the threat of scattered strong storms on Sunday evening, with the potential for 60 mph wind gusts and quarter-size hail. Although severe weather will not be widespread, any storm that turns strong could cause local damage and travel disruption. Residents should stay alert, take precautions, and monitor updated forecasts. As conditions may remain unsettled into the week, being prepared is the best way to stay safe.
