Spring Storm Hits the Midwest with Winds, Rain and Tornados

Lincoln, Nebraska -- The overcast sky grew dark as a slate gray boarder approached from the Southeast. I had chosen this moment to be driving on Nebraska Highway 2 heading South. Warnings of a tornado sighted on Doppler a couple of counties away, interrupted my radio station's playlist. As I turned East onto S. 70^th Street, I noticed that the car in front of me seemed as unsure as I was. Where did that road go anyway?

Monday, most of the U.S. was rocked by thunderstorms and tornadoes. It was a huge contrast to the spring-like conditions we were enjoying. The National Weather Service said a deep, low-pressure system to the west was generating strong winds and forming thunderstorms. Already winds of up to 90mph have been reported.

It took a minute for us to get a clear view of the turning lane. We both seemed to eagerly grasp that momentary break and gun for that parking lot ahead before our vision went out again. I waited in the car for a moment before rushing into my destination, becoming soaked for my trouble. As the wind shoved me in the doors I smiled at the sudden calm.

In the Lincoln area damage was minimal. Mostly fierce winds, broken tree branches, and heavy rain. In some areas people were pummeled by golf ball sized hail. In Northern Nebraska rain turned into up to three inches of snow.

Here in Nebraska we are used to the term Tornado Alley. Although tornadoes were not originally reported as part of the package, we were not surprised when they formed and touched down. These tornado touchdowns were confirmed in both Nebraska and Iowa. No major injuries have been reported. In Eagle, there were 2 confirmed tornado touchdowns.

We watched KOLN/KGIN channel 10/11, as the Nebraska Emergency Management Agency officials stated that 5 people were injured in a car that was hit by building debris. A garage was destroyed and several buildings were damaged. Downed power lines were reported.

In the nearby town of Bennet a semi truck was blown onto its' side. This is an all too common occurrence in Kansas where the Highway Patrol is being bombarded with these calls. Lt Mike Murphy with the Kansas State Highway patrol reported that in his 20 years of law enforcement he had never seen so many semis blown over.

Most likely the biggest mess of this storm is the Union Pacific train that derailed 54 cars filled with grain just west of the Missouri Valley. Wind conditions compound clean up efforts.

Although this early spring storm does not bode well for the year, it could have been worse. As we gather around with our family tomorrow to celebrate another year of life, we remain grateful there have been no reports of loss of life or serious injuries.