Omaha, Nebraska With persistent flood concerns and severe fire danger, residents in eastern Nebraska should brace themselves for dangerous weather this weekend. Due to ice jams on the Loup, Platte, and Elkhorn Rivers, which could cause quickly rising water levels, a flood watch is still in force through Saturday evening. Furthermore, a Red Flag Warning is in effect Friday due to the increased risk of fire due to strong winds and low humidity.
In areas of the Loup and Platte Rivers, ice breakdown has already begun, resulting in modest flooding close to Columbus and Schuyler, according to the National Weather Service (NWS) Omaha/Valley. Water levels might change by one to three feet in a short amount of time, which would be extremely dangerous for low-lying communities.
In the meanwhile, severe fire hazard is predicted for southwest Iowa and eastern Nebraska due to moisture levels as low as 19% and northwest winds of 25–35 mph with 45 mph gusts. It is highly discouraged to burn outdoors because any fire that begins could spread quickly.
Five-Day Omaha, Nebraska Forecast
Friday: strong northwest winds, rising clouds, with a high of 62 degrees Fahrenheit.
Saturday: sunny, high of 42°F, with calmer winds moving from 3 to 8 mph to the southeast.
Sunday: sunny, 53°F high, with gusts of up to 23 mph.
Monday: mostly sunny, 61°F high, with 21 mph south breezes.
Tuesday: Strong southeast winds of up to 30 mph, high of 58 F, with probable rain.
Safety Measures
Avoid rivers and keep an eye out for alerts regarding abrupt changes in water levels to reduce the risk of flooding.
Avoid burning outside and dispose of flammable objects appropriately to reduce the risk of a fire.
For the most recent weather updates, follow local emergency alerts and NWS Omaha.
