Northwest Nebraska Supercells Set for 2.5-Inch Hail, 80 MPH Gusts — SevereWX

Thunderstorms are firing up across northwest and north-central Nebraska, fueled by moderate instability and a mid-level shortwave trough digging in from the southwest. SPC's Mesoscale Discussion 1473 highlights a growing severe threat as convective coverage increases this evening.

Storms stretching from northwest Nebraska into southwest South Dakota are gaining steam, backed by 40 knots of 0-6 km shear and steep low-level lapse rates. This setup favors supercells capable of 1.50-2.50 inch hail (golf ball to tennis ball size) and 65-80 mph wind gusts. Shorter line segments could also pack severe downdrafts.

Meanwhile, ongoing cells in far southeast Wyoming will push eastward into western Nebraska, maintaining potent cores with similar hazards.

A watch issuance looms at 60% probability within the next couple hours, valid through around 7:45 PM CDT. Peak threats include tornado winds up to 90 mph, though hail and straight-line winds lead the concern.

This fits into Nebraska's broader Enhanced Risk today, but focus here is the northwest and north-central zones—think areas near Chadron, Alliance, O'Neill, and Ainsworth.

Stay prepared: Monitor radar closely, secure outdoor items, and have a safe spot ready for large hail or damaging winds. Check local NWS updates and apps for real-time warnings.