Mid-MO Valley Supercells Primed for 2.5-Inch Hail, 80 MPH Winds Near Omaha — SevereWX
Mid-MO Valley storms are heating up fast.
The Storm Prediction Center's latest Mesoscale Discussion (1471) flags rising severe potential over southeast Nebraska, southwest Iowa, and far northeast Kansas. Strong destabilization near a modifying outflow boundary from earlier convection has sparked midlevel cumulus, signaling steep lapse rates and hefty instability. An afternoon sounding from Omaha clocked nearly 4000 J/kg MUCAPE with supercell-friendly wind profiles already in place.
Storms could pop as early as 5-6 PM CDT (22-23z), wasting no time in turning supercellular. Expect isolated to scattered cells packing very large hail near baseball size (1.50-2.50 inches) as the primary threat, alongside damaging gusts to 80 mph. If storms cluster up tonight, wind risks could ramp higher through outflow consolidation.
A severe thunderstorm watch looks probable within the next 1-2 hours, covering this roughly Omaha-to-Council Bluffs corridor and points south. Peak probs: tornado winds to 90 mph, hail 2.5 inches, gusts 65-80 mph.
Timing remains the wildcard, but ingredients align for a potent evening show. Track updates via SPC and local NWS offices (OAX, DMX, EAX).
Stay prepared: Secure outdoor items, seek shelter indoors if storms approach, and monitor radar closely. Have a severe weather plan ready—your safety comes first.