LINCOLN, Neb. (KOLN) – After a pleasant Sunday with temperatures near 70 degrees, Nebraskans will soak up some summer-like warmth Monday before the threat of severe weather returns with even more wind later in the week.
Monday will bring sunny skies and highs in the middle to upper 70s, if not the 80s across much of the area.
But don’t get too comfortable. Southerly winds will return and increase throughout the day, creating very high fire danger across the region — potentially reaching extreme levels in portions of central and western Nebraska.
The bigger concern is fire weather. Humidity levels will plummet as dry southerly winds push into the area, creating dangerous conditions for any spark to spread.
A Red Flag Warning is in effect for much of central and western Nebraska for Monday afternoon and evening. Any outdoor burning or activities that could spark a fire should be avoided.
Tuesday: Warming trend continues with high fire danger
The warm pattern intensifies Tuesday as temperatures climb into the upper 80s and lower 90s across the state.
High temperatures in Lincoln will be up in record territory, too.
Fire danger remains very high, though lighter winds should help limit some concerns compared to Monday. Conditions stay dry with little change in overall moisture.
Wednesday: Winds increase as system approaches
A large weather system begins to approach the region Wednesday. Near wind-advisory level southerly winds may develop as the system gets closer, continuing very high fire danger concerns. Temperatures remain in the 80s with increasing clouds, but precipitation chances remain low. Increasing moisture may begin to help limit the fire threat as the day progresses.
There will be a Marginal (Level 1 of 5) risk for severe weather in western Nebraska by the end of the afternoon and heading into Wednesday evening. The primary threats will be hail and gusty winds.
Thursday brings active weather and severe storm potential
Thursday marks a significant shift. As a cold front and/or dryline pushes through the area, showers and thunderstorms are possible for much of Nebraska. There is a low (15%) chance of severe storms, particularly for portions of southeast Nebraska and southwest Iowa.
Ahead of the front, warm and moist conditions may support storm development. Behind the front, very high to potentially extreme fire danger may return as warm, dry, and windy conditions persist briefly before the system fully moves through…