Weather Alert: The Omaha metropolitan area is again under warning as forecasters anticipate another bout of severe weather on its way into Tuesday night and beyond. After a stormy Monday night, the air is still unstable, increasing the possibility of powerful thunderstorms affecting a large part of eastern Nebraska.
Monday’s Calm Before the Second Storm
Following a first round of storms that swept through Monday evening, conditions were briefly stabilized. The threat of severe weather greatly diminished overnight, with only scattered isolated storms predicted to enter the area after 1 a.m. These early morning systems were predicted to be weak with little potential to produce damage.
While some areas of the city might have seen light rain or thunder early on Tuesday morning, the real concern arises later in the day.
A Stormy Finish to a Muggy Day
Tuesday starts out with residual thunderstorm activity in spots, clearing by later in the morning. The afternoon will remain fairly dry, but humid. It will remain in the 80s temperature-wise and will be sticky and warm.
This dry window is short-lived. Meteorologists caution that conditions will continue to be good for storm redevelopment during the latter half of the day. The greatest threat to strong storms comes back after 6 p.m., with the most severe activity probably to form after 9 p.m.
Primary Threats from the Future Storms
The late night and night hours provide the best opportunity for severe weather. Although not all areas will be impacted, storms that do materialize could produce:
- Damaging gusts
- Large hailstones
- Repeated lightning
- Sporadic heavy rain showers
- While tornado threat is minimal, it cannot be excluded entirely in isolated incidents.
As the evening wears on, the intense threat should steadily diminish. Some of the storm cells will likely extend into early Wednesday, though.
Wednesday Morning Outlook
As of Wednesday morning, the storms should have weakened considerably. Scattered thunderstorms or rain showers might still be present, but they should not be severe. Traffic commuters will experience rainy roads or isolated lightning, and so caution is still needed on the morning commute.
Community Preparedness and Safety Tips
With the potential for impactful weather overnight, residents are urged to prepare in advance. Evening and nighttime storms can catch people off guard, especially when they occur after dark. It is important to take the following precautions:
- Secure outdoor items like furniture, grills, or trash bins that could be picked up by strong winds.
- Charge phones and electronic devices in case of power outages.
- Have flashlights and batteries on hand.
- Remain indoors during lightning and keep away from open doors or windows.
- Be prepared with an adequate source of warning such as a weather radio or emergency alarm system.
- Even if it’s early bedtime, leave your phone volume on and notifications active in the event that warnings are given during the night.
Looking Ahead to the Rest of the Week
Though the emphasis remains on Tuesday night’s storms, the area is not yet in the clear. Projections indicate a later weather issue of concern to develop later this week. A period of dangerously hot weather is forecasted from Friday through Sunday, with early heat advisories issued.
The pairing of consecutive storm threats and future heat makes this a critical time to stay weather-aware.
Final Thoughts
The Omaha community is well used to summer storms, but every system presents its own danger. As strong storms are predicted for Tuesday evening and early Wednesday morning, residents must take the warnings seriously and be vigilant. Preparation and sensitivity to shifting weather patterns will be essential to remaining safe in the next 24 hours.
As the situation changes, local officials and meteorologists will remain on top of the situation and release updates. Watch the weather and be prepared to respond if severe weather alerts are issued.
