Waverly, Nebraska—A series of at least six tornadoes, described as "historic" by local meteorologists, swept through eastern Nebraska on Friday, causing extensive damage. The storms flattened a business, overturned a train, and demolished numerous suburban homes near Omaha.


Despite the severity of the storms, as of late Friday, officials had not confirmed any serious injuries or fatalities. These were among the most destructive storms to strike the Omaha area since the May 1975 tornadoes, which claimed three lives, injured hundreds, and ravaged an area near 72nd and Pacific Streets.


Meteorologist Taylor Nicolaisen from the National Weather Service in Valley noted that Friday marked a record-breaking day for tornado warnings, with at least 41 issued—the highest number ever for a single day. Preliminary reports suggested potentially record-breaking force from the tornadoes that struck Douglas County. However, accurate classification of tornado strength would require ground verification, with some possibly exceeding EF-3 intensity.


The aftermath revealed extensive damage in Douglas County's Elkhorn and Bennington areas, as well as in Waterloo. Authorities urged residents to avoid affected areas to facilitate the work of first responders. Sheriff Aaron Hanson emphasized the ongoing danger, cautioning against entering damaged zones due to potential hazards.


In Omaha, Eppley Airfield suffered significant damage to its private plane service area, while some airport facilities incurred minor damage. Despite this, commercial flights continued to operate. Power outages affected around 7,000 Omaha Public Power District customers due to storm damage to transmission lines and poles.


Nebraska Emergency Management Agency reported damage in various counties, including Sherman, Greeley, and Washington, with minor incidents in Boone, Buffalo, Butler, Howard, Platte, and Nance Counties. Storm-affected individuals seeking non-emergency assistance were encouraged to call 211, reserving 911 for emergencies.


In Lancaster County, at least 12 homes were damaged in Waverly, where a tornado derailed a 31-car train and caused a building collapse at Garner Industries, resulting in three injuries. Lincoln also experienced tornado touchdowns, with reports of funnels near Waverly and along the city's southwestern and northwestern edges.


Governor Jim Pillen announced plans to update the public on Saturday afternoon, emphasizing state support for emergency response efforts and expressing confidence in Nebraskans' resilience. Meteorologists warned of a potential second round of severe weather on Saturday, urging people to remain vigilant and heed warning systems to ensure safety.