Omaha, Nebraska experienced a series of powerful thunderstorms on Friday afternoon, resulting in significant severe weather and widespread damage across eastern Nebraska. The region saw reports of at least 63 tornadoes or tornado-related damage, with five significant tornado paths identified thus far. As officials continue to survey the damage in the coming days, more details are expected to emerge.

The first tornado was reported on the northeast side of Lincoln around 2:40 p.m., originating from a large supercell thunderstorm that intensified along Highway 6. The tornado then crossed I-80 at the intersection of Highway 6 and moved through northeast Lancaster County, causing damage to industrial buildings and flipping vehicles on the highway. The tornado continued through several towns, including Waverly, Greenwood, and Ashland, before dissipating in Saunders County.

After briefly lifting, the same storm produced a new tornado south of Yutan in Saunders County, which then crossed the Platte River into Douglas County and the far southwest side of Omaha. This tornado strengthened as it moved across Center Road, causing destruction in areas like West Dodge and River Road Drive, before reaching Elkhorn and causing major damage to homes in the area.

The tornado continued its path through southcentral Washington County, passing near Kennard and Blair Airport before reaching the city limits of Blair and eventually crossing into Iowa. The storm dissipated after traversing a distance of approximately 35 miles. Subsequently, another tornado developed near downtown Omaha, causing damage to parts of Eppley Airfield and leading to a temporary closure of the airport. The tornado then crossed the Missouri River into Iowa, continuing its destructive path through various counties.

In the small town of Minden, Iowa, a large multi-vortex tornado caused significant damage, crossing I-80 and moving into Shelby County before finally dissipating in northern Shelby County. The storm left a trail of destruction approximately 40 miles in length. As communities assess the aftermath of the severe weather, recovery efforts and support for those affected are underway.