LINCOLN, Neb. (KOLN) – Overnight and early morning rainfall brought some relief to drought-stricken parts of Nebraska, but the latest drought monitor shows the crisis is far from over.
The U.S. Drought Monitor, released Thursday morning, reveals three distinct patches of extreme drought across the state that have now connected. A significant stretch along Interstate 80 in southwest Nebraska, much of the panhandle and northeast Nebraska remain in extreme drought conditions. The Lincoln area has also slipped into severe drought.
We’ll need several good rains to make real progress.
Where the Rain Fell
Lincoln received over an inch of rainfall overnight and through Thursday morning, the first time we’ve seen that much rain since October 2025.
Some areas on the northwest side of town and the airport reported over an inch.
Central and eastern Nebraska received the most significant rainfall. Grand Island picked up just over an inch, while Norfolk received over an inch and three-quarters. Hastings saw an inch and a half.
Western Nebraska, however, missed out on most of the precipitation — a continued frustration for that drought-stricken region.
The latest drought data doesn’t yet reflect Thursday’s rainfall. Next Thursday’s update should show how this week’s rains affect the drought picture.
Friday: Showers, Storms & Possible Severe Weather
Another low pressure system will move across the region Friday, bringing additional chances for drizzle, scattered showers and afternoon thunderstorms…