11:20 a.m., June 7, 2024
Omaha Public Power District is watching the skies closely and preparing for severe weather potential and the possibility of power outages tonight. The greatest threat in our area, according to the National Weather Service, is from 6 to 11 p.m. We will be holding over additional crews and will be ready to respond, if needed.
Forecasters say the weather will start to kick in by mid to late afternoon, moving across parts of eastern Nebraska and Southwest Iowa through the evening. These storms could bring lots of lightning, damaging wind and hail, flash flooding, and even a chance for tornadoes. The greatest chance for severe weather is southwest of a line from Niobrara to Norfolk to Omaha to Clarinda. The greatest chance for isolated flash flooding is generally along or just south of this line.
The storms are projected to be fast-moving, from the northwest to the southeast, with the worst of it hitting the Omaha metro area around 8:30 p.m. or 9 p.m. They bring the potential for a good amount of damage, according to forecasters, with the greatest threat being strong winds. Widespread winds of 40 to 50 mph winds are likely over the course of an hour or two; however, shorter bursts of more than 70 or 80 mph winds could impact some areas.
If you should come across downed power lines, please assume they are live, high voltage and extremely dangerous. Stay far back and call OPPD or 911 to report the hazard.
You can prepare for the possibility of power outages with some simple steps, such as charging your electronic devices like phones and laptops ahead of time and making sure you know where the manual release for your garage door is, so you can get your vehicle out, if needed. If you experience a power outage, be sure to report it online, via the OPPDConnect app, or by calling us at 1-800-554-OPPD (6773), so we are aware and can respond.
