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Extreme Heat and Severe Thunderstorms Today

Extreme heat continues today from the central Plains to the lower Mississippi River Valley, over southeast Montana, and from southern California into the Southwest Deserts. Extreme Heat Warnings remain in effect. Severe thunderstorms capable of strong to severe wind gusts and large hail are possible across the Great Lakes into the Ohio Valley today into tonight. Read More >

Overview

An intense low pressure system moved across the Central Plains and into the Great Lakes on March 19th, bringing strong to severe thunderstorms, widespread heavy snow, and strong to damaging winds to much of the Midwest. The NWS Omaha coverage area experienced all of these hazards, with thunderstorms developing during the early morning hours, including one that produced quarter sized hail near Fort Calhoun, NE. The rain switched over to sleet through the morning and eventually heavy, wet snow, with thundersnow occurring for a few hours. In addition, 50-70+ mph wind gusts were observed with the falling snow, leading to near 0 visibility and widespread damage to trees and power lines, with numerous power outages across eastern Nebraska and southwest Iowa. Many roads and highways were also closed throughout the event.

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