Waverly, Nebraska – A tornado was spotted on the ground in southeast Nebraska as the National Weather Service issued multiple warnings for the western parts of the Omaha metro area. The twister, confirmed north of Waverly, was seen moving northeast shortly after 3 p.m. on Friday local time, prompting officials to urge residents to seek immediate shelter. In Lancaster County, a massive tornado was intercepted north of Lincoln, captured on footage by weather videographer Nick Gorman.

Nebraska State Patrol set tornado warnings Friday afternoon for an area near Interstate 80 between Lincoln and Omaha. Across the region, at least three other tornadoes were reported since Thursday, including ones near Bird City, Kansas; Yoder, Wyoming; and Akron, Colorado, according to the National Weather Service. The potential for more storms on the eastern side of the Plains on Friday could result in additional tornadoes and hail, with severe weather expected to persist through Saturday.

Kansas Governor Laura Kelly declared a state of disaster emergency due to the severe weather, emphasizing the importance of having an emergency kit and a family plan ready in case of a tornado. Governor Kelly stressed staying updated on local weather conditions through NOAA weather radios or local media. The alertness and preparedness of residents are crucial when warnings are activated.

As the threat of severe weather looms over the middle Mississippi Valley and central and southern Plains, the possibility of more tornadoes and hail remains high. Additional storms could bring lightning and severe wind gusts, adding to the already turbulent weather conditions. It is essential for residents in these areas to remain vigilant and take all necessary precautions to ensure their safety.

The ongoing severe weather alerts and warnings across multiple states highlight the volatile nature of the current weather patterns. With tornadoes being reported in various locations, the importance of monitoring weather updates and heeding precautions cannot be overstated. The storm warnings serve as a reminder of the unpredictable and potentially dangerous conditions that can arise during severe weather events. Residents in the affected areas are advised to stay informed and prepared for any further developments as the severe weather situation continues to unfold.