NEBRASKA HAZARDS

SEVERE WEATHER PREPAREDNESS

Severe weather can happen at any time of year. Thunderstorms can bring damaging winds, lightning, hail, heavy rain, and tornadoes, while winter storms can create dangerous travel conditions, power outages, and extreme cold.

Prepare before severe weather strikes. Know how you will receive warnings, where you will take shelter, and what you will need to stay safe.

Stay Infromed

  • Sign up for local emergency alerts.
  • Keep a NOAA Weather Radio with battery backup.
  • Monitor local news and National Weather Service forecasts during severe weather.
  • Know the difference between a watch and a warning:
    • Watch: Severe weather is possible. Be prepared to act.
    • Warning: Severe weather is occurring or imminent. Take shelter immediately.
  • Do not rely solely on outdoor warning sirens.

Build an Emergency Kit

Keep enough supplies to shelter in place for at least 72 hours. Include:

  • Water and nonperishable food
  • Flashlights and extra batteries
  • NOAA Weather Radio and batteries
  • First aid supplies
  • Prescription medications
  • Blankets and extra clothing
  • Phone chargers and a portable power bank
  • Important documents
  • Pet supplies

WEATHER SAFTEY RESOURCES

Ready.gov: Severe Weather Preparedness
National Weather Service: Weather Safety
Nebraska Emergency Management Agency: Be Ready Nebraska
American Red Cross: Emergency Preparedness
Nebraska 511: Current road and travel conditions
Severe Thunderstorms
Winter Weather

SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS

Thunderstorms

During a severe thunderstorm:

  • Move indoors and stay away from windows.
  • Stay inside until the storm has passed.
  • If outdoors, seek shelter in a substantial building or vehicle.
  • Never shelter under a tree during a thunderstorm.
  • Stay away from downed power lines and flooded areas.

Lightning

If you can hear thunder, you are close enough to be struck by lightning. When thunder roars, go indoors. Remain indoors until at least 30 minutes after the last sound of thunder.

Hail

Hail can damage vehicles, roofs, windows, and other property.

  • Stay indoors and away from windows and skylights.
  • Park vehicles in a garage or covered area when possible.
  • Consider reviewing your insurance coverage before severe weather season.
  • After a storm, safely document damage and contact your insurance provider.

storm cloudslightninghail storm

WINTER WEATHER

Winter storms can bring snow, ice, extreme cold, dangerous travel conditions, and power outages.

Before a Winter Storm

  • Keep several days of food, water, medications, and essential supplies on hand.
  • Have warm clothing, blankets, and emergency heating supplies available.
  • Protect pipes from freezing.
  • Keep snow removal equipment and ice-melting materials available.
  • Prepare a winter emergency kit for your vehicle.

During a Winter Storm

  • Stay indoors whenever possible.
  • Dress warmly and limit time outdoors.
  • Avoid unnecessary travel.
  • Monitor weather and road conditions.
  • Check on neighbors who may need additional assistance.
  • Never use generators, grills, or other fuel-burning equipment inside a home, garage, or other enclosed space.

If You Must Travel

Avoid traveling during severe winter weather whenever possible. If travel is necessary:

  • Check current road and weather conditions before leaving.
  • Tell someone your destination and route.
  • Keep your vehicle's fuel tank at least half full.
  • Carry blankets, warm clothing, food, water, a flashlight, first aid supplies, and other emergency items.
  • If you become stranded, stay with your vehicle and call for help.

Extreme Cold

Know the signs of frostbite and hypothermia. Symptoms may include numbness, pale or hardened skin, uncontrollable shivering, confusion, drowsiness, and slurred speech.

If you suspect frostbite or hypothermia, move the person to a warm location, remove wet clothing, warm them gradually, and seek medical attention.

Prepare Now

Know your risks. Make a plan. Build an emergency kit. Stay informed. Take action when warnings are issued.