Panhandle Supercells, Wyoming Storms Load 2.5-Inch Hail, 80 MPH Winds for Nebraska — SevereWX

Panhandle Supercells, Wyoming Storms Load 2.5-Inch Hail, 80 MPH Winds for Nebraska

Thunderstorms are firing up along a ribbon of juicy instability stretching from northwest Nebraska into southwest South Dakota, fueled by a mid-level shortwave trough. Expect coverage to ramp up soon, thanks to broad ascent aloft.

With 40 knots of 0-6 km shear from Rapid City radar data and steep low-level lapse rates, these storms have supercell potential. Isolated large hail up to tennis ball size (2.5 inches) and severe wind gusts to 80 mph are on the table. Shorter line segments could also pack damaging downdrafts.

Meanwhile, ongoing storms in southeast Wyoming look set to hold together, barreling east into western Nebraska. The stronger cells here could drop severe hail and gusty winds too.

SPC's Mesoscale Discussion 1473 flags a 60% chance of watch issuance within the next couple hours for northwest and north-central Nebraska. Peak threats: 1.50-2.5 inch hail, 65-80 mph winds, and tornado winds to 90 mph.

Track radar closely this evening as these storms evolve.

Stay prepared: Know your severe weather plan—secure outdoors, have helmets ready for hail, and monitor NOAA Weather Radio or apps for updates.