A slight risk for severe weather is projected for parts of west central and southwestern Nebraska on Sunday, with a marginal risk extending to surrounding areas, including Grand Island. The main threats include large hail, potentially reaching the size of tennis balls, wind gusts exceeding 75 mph, and the possibility of brief tornado formations as the evening progresses.
Forecast models indicate that storms will be moving in from South Dakota early Sunday morning, bringing significant wind threats, especially to parts of Broken Bow. The storms are expected to intensify into a Mesoscale Convective System (MCS) by late Sunday afternoon, originating from west central Nebraska and Colorado. It is during this phase that the likelihood of large hail and brief rotations increases, particularly with any isolated storm cells. As the line of storms continues eastward into southwestern Nebraska by Sunday evening, it will likely shift to a heavy rain, damaging wind, and hail event.
Looking ahead to Monday, a similar storm system is expected to initiate in the evening, with storms forming out west before moving eastward overnight. The primary concerns remain with large hail and strong winds, and there is potential for the risk zone to shift further east into southeastern Nebraska as the timing approaches. Scattered storm chances are expected to persist through Wednesday, indicating an ongoing threat of severe weather.
Additionally, temperatures Sunday will range from the low to upper 80s under mostly sunny conditions, while cooler temperatures are anticipated in the west due to storm activities. Tonight, the short-term forecast suggests mid to upper 60s, with a chance for isolated showers lingering across the state.
This weather pattern paints a picture of dynamic conditions, underscoring the importance for residents in the affected areas to stay updated on weather alerts as the systems move in. With these storm systems, communities may brace for impacts, but adequate preparation can mitigate risk. Overall, while the weather poses challenges, it also brings the potential for beneficial rainfall in drought-affected areas.
Meteorologist Houston Hall emphasizes vigilance as these conditions develop over the coming days.