Tornado Emergency Declared in Nebraska and Iowa as Violent Tornado Causes Catastrophic Damage

A tornado emergency has been declared in parts of Nebraska and Iowa as a violent, large tornado is causing catastrophic damage in the areas of Bennington, Blair, Valley (NE), and Missouri Valley (IA). The National Weather Service has issued tornado warnings for multiple counties in both states, urging residents to seek immediate shelter.

The tornado has been reported to be causing significant damage to homes, businesses, and other structures. It wrecked the Garner Industries building in Lincoln before moving towards Omaha. Video footage shows the large tornado in the suburbs of Omaha. Multiple houses and buildings have been leveled in Waterloo.

Tornadoes have been confirmed in several locations, including near Ashland, Gretna, St. Edward, and Brainard. There have also been reports of debris and a possible train derailment in Waverly. Radar has detected a couplet near 180th and Bennington Road.

The tornado crossed Interstate 80 in Lincoln, Nebraska and is continuing to move through the region, posing a significant threat to surrounding communities. It is described as life-threatening, and the tornado warning has been upgraded to a tornado emergency, indicating an extremely dangerous situation.

Why this matters: The tornado emergency affects over 240,000 people in eastern Nebraska and southwestern Iowa. The catastrophic damage and life-threatening nature of this violent tornado have prompted authorities to closely monitor the situation and provide urgent safety instructions to the public.

Authorities have shut down traffic in the area of West Dodge Road and 192nd Street. A tornado watch remains in effect for the affected counties until 7 p.m. The 6 First Alert Weather team is closely monitoring the situation and providing updates as the storm system continues to develop and move through the region. Emergency responders are on the scene, and residents are advised to take shelter immediately and avoid traveling in the impacted areas.

Key Takeaways

• Tornado emergency declared in parts of Nebraska and Iowa, causing catastrophic damage.
• Tornado crossed Interstate 80 in Lincoln, NE and is moving through the region.
• Tornado warnings issued for multiple counties, urging residents to seek immediate shelter.
• Significant damage reported to homes, businesses, and other structures in affected areas.
• Authorities have shut down traffic and emergency responders are on the scene.