Tornado Outbreak Leaves 10,000 Without Power in Omaha

A severe tornado outbreak struck Nebraska on Friday, April 19, 2024, leaving over 10,000 people without power in Omaha and causing significant damage across the state. The National Weather Service confirmed 23 tornadoes and 2 funnel clouds throughout the day, with a 93 mph wind gust recorded at the Lincoln Airport.

The storms caused damage to trees and power lines, with the weather service warning of the potential for strong to severe storms in the region. Tornado warnings were issued for several areas in Southeast Nebraska, including Lincoln. Numerous houses and buildings were leveled, and there are reports of debris and a possible train derailment in Waverly.

The hardest hit areas were Butler and Lancaster counties, which recorded 4 and 5 tornadoes respectively. Damage included destroyed roofs, downed power lines, and commercial building damage. A tornado touched down 4 miles southwest of Waverly, causing a train derailment along Highway 6 and another derailment in the Highway 6 and I-80 area. Additionally, a semi-truck rolled over on Highway 15 in Butler County.

Other confirmed tornado touchdowns occurred in Ravenna, Rockville, Farwell, St. Edward, Newman Grove, Lindsay, Waterloo, Bennington, Yutan, and Elkhorn. A powerful tornado struck suburban Omaha, causing significant damage to homes and infrastructure. Photos and videos on social media showed heavily damaged homes and shredded trees.

Why this matters: The tornado outbreak is part of a larger severe weather event impacting the central United States, with the threat of severe thunderstorms, damaging winds, large hail, and strong tornadoes continuing through the weekend. The storms pose a significant risk to life and property across a wide area.

Authorities reported that around 10,000 people were left without power in the Omaha area due to the storm. The Omaha Public Power District said five circuits were locked out and they are receiving reports of extensive damage in some areas. "When it is safe, our crews will begin restoring power to the impacted areas," OPPD stated. Officials urged anyone who encounters a downed power line to treat it as live and call 911 immediately. The full extent of injuries or fatalities is still unclear as damage assessments are ongoing.

Key Takeaways

• Severe tornado outbreak struck Nebraska on April 19, 2024, leaving over 10,000 without power.
• 23 tornadoes and 2 funnel clouds confirmed, with 93 mph wind gust at Lincoln Airport.
• Hardest hit areas were Butler and Lancaster counties, with significant damage to homes and infrastructure.
• Tornado struck suburban Omaha, causing substantial damage to homes and trees.
• Authorities reported extensive damage, with the full extent of injuries or fatalities still unclear.