Record-Breaking Tornadoes Sweep Eastern Nebraska: Historic Storms Leave Trails of Destruction but No Fatalities

April 27, 2024

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Unprecedented Tornado Activity in Omaha

Omaha, Nebraska — A series of at least six tornadoes, described by experts as “historic,” wreaked havoc across eastern Nebraska on Friday, April 26. The powerful storms demolished a commercial structure, overturned a freight train, and devastated numerous homes in the suburbs surrounding Omaha.

Despite the severe destruction, which ranks among the worst since the deadly tornadoes of May 1975, there were remarkably few reports of serious injuries or fatalities by late Friday evening. Those tornadoes from nearly five decades ago claimed three lives, left hundreds injured, and caused extensive damage near the intersection of 72nd and Pacific Streets in Omaha.

Historic Nebraska tornadoes

The ominous skies over northeast Lincoln saw a funnel cloud form on Friday, captured by Aaron Sanderford of the Nebraska Examiner. Taylor Nicolaisen, a National Weather Service meteorologist stationed in Valley, highlighted the unprecedented number of tornado warnings issued that day, totaling 41—a record-breaking figure surpassing the previous high of 33 warnings issued on May 12, 2023.

Early assessments suggest that the tornadoes might have reached potentially record-breaking intensities for a metropolitan area, particularly in Douglas County, although further evaluations are necessary to confirm the strength of the tornadoes, possibly exceeding an EF-3 rating.

“This is pretty historic,” Nicolaisen remarked. “For those who are concerned about such events, this was a once-in-a-lifetime occurrence. These conditions emerge only every few decades, but the threat remains significant and could pose deadly risks tomorrow.”

Officials in Douglas County reported significant structural damage in the Elkhorn and Bennington areas, as well as in Waterloo. Authorities have strongly advised the public to avoid these areas, allowing emergency crews to safely perform their duties. While only minor injuries were reported, the potential dangers from unstable structures and debris are still a significant concern.

Avoid Entering Damaged Zones

County Sheriff Aaron Hanson emphasized the peril of entering damaged zones, warning of the unseen hazards that could cause injuries or fatalities. “These areas are hazardous,” Hanson stated. “Even if emergency teams are not visible, the risks of injury from debris or damaged infrastructure are very real.”

At Omaha’s Eppley Airfield, significant damage was reported on the side servicing private aircraft, although commercial flight operations were not disrupted. The storm also caused widespread power outages, with the Omaha Public Power District reporting approximately 7,000 customers without electricity due to damaged transmission lines and other infrastructure.

The Nebraska Emergency Management Agency, led by Katrina Sperl, is in the process of gathering and confirming reports of damage and injuries across the state, including significant impacts in Sherman and Greeley counties.

In Lancaster County, where the storm caused a 31-car train derailment and the total collapse of an industrial building at Garner Industries, three injuries were reported, with all individuals expected to recover. Seventy employees were present during the incident at the facility, which specializes in plastic injection molding.

Community and Emergency Response

Governor Jim Pillen has announced plans for a briefing on Saturday afternoon and has mobilized state resources to aid in the emergency response. He expressed confidence in the resilience of Nebraskans, known for their steadfast spirit and readiness to support one another in times of crisis.

Meteorologist Nicolaisen has issued warnings of another round of severe weather expected Saturday, primarily south of Interstate 80, with the potential for more tornadoes and hail. Residents are urged to stay vigilant and adhere to safety advisories, leveraging the early warning systems that have proven life-saving during Friday’s storms.