Severe storms rolled over Eastern Nebraska Thursday night, causing significant damage to multiple homes and buildings in Douglas County.
Kristopher Peterson of the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office says the main area of impact was between 84th Street and 72nd Street, just north of Dutch Hall Road. The tornado hit shortly before 8 p.m., following a warning from the National Weather Service (NWS).
While the exact number of tornadoes has not been confirmed, the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office reported several homes and outbuildings were destroyed or heavily damaged.
“Once we got confirmation that there was damage, we had road patrol deputies responding to assist with evacuations and rescue efforts,” said Captain Kristopher Peterson of the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office. Downed power lines and fallen trees blocked roads, prompting a coordinated response from county engineers, Omaha Public Power District (OPPD), and multiple volunteer fire departments.
Roger Peek, assistant chief with Irvington Volunteer Fire Department, said firefighters found at least four homes uninhabitable and inspected 28 properties in total. “Thankfully, we only had one minor injury,” he said, adding that approximately 25–30 firefighters responded.
Authorities are warning the public to stay away from the affected area unless offering official aid. “We will not be giving any second chances here,” Peterson said. “If people come into this area looting, trying to steal from the victims in these situations, we will be arresting you and booking you.”
Extra patrols will remain in the area in the coming days as cleanup and recovery efforts continue.
Lincoln was spared by Thursday’s storms, but a couple of tornados touched down east of Lincoln in Cass County near the villages of Alvo and Manley, according to NWS lead meteorologist Van DeWald.
“Those were a couple of weak tornadoes that may have done some damage to some outbuildings. I don’t know if there’s any actual homes that received damage, but maybe some outbuildings, and of course tree and power line damage there,” DeWald said.