A sharp temperature swing will bring dangerously hot and humid conditions to Lincoln and much of eastern Nebraska this weekend, with heat-index readings potentially reaching 115 degrees Sunday and Monday.
7-23-26 NWS Omaha/Valley
The National Weather Service office in Omaha says temperatures will climb from the 70s Thursday into the 80s Friday before surging into the mid-90s to around 100 degrees Saturday.
Saturday’s heat index is expected to range from 100 to 105 degrees. The heat is forecast to peak Sunday and Monday, when actual temperatures could reach the upper 90s to around 105 and humidity could push the heat index into the 105-to-115-degree range.
The Weather Service says confidence is high that the weekend will be hot and humid, with computer forecast guidance continuing to trend toward higher temperatures.
10/11 NOW meteorologist Brandon Rector has declared Sunday and Monday Weather Alert Days because of the dangerous heat. The station projects afternoon and early-evening heat-index readings generally between 100 and 110 degrees, with some locations potentially approaching 115.
Little relief is expected overnight. The Weather Service says low temperatures may remain in the mid-to-upper 70s, preventing homes without adequate air conditioning from cooling down and increasing the cumulative risk of heat-related illness.
No heat advisories or warnings had been issued for eastern Nebraska as of early Thursday afternoon. However, the Weather Service said heat-related alerts will likely be needed as the weekend approaches. The latest maps are available here 7-23-26 NWS PM DssPacket
Rain Before the Heat
Before the temperature surge, another round of showers and scattered thunderstorms is expected late Thursday night into Friday morning.
The Weather Service says widespread rainfall totals between one-quarter inch and 1 inch are possible, with the highest amounts expected across southeastern Nebraska. Isolated locations could receive more than an inch.
Rain should gradually end from west to east Friday morning, with most of the region drying out by noon. Temperatures are expected to recover into the upper 80s across eastern Nebraska Friday afternoon as clouds begin to break apart.
A strengthening ridge of high pressure will then expand into the region, allowing temperatures to climb rapidly during the weekend. High atmospheric moisture and dew points well into the 70s will make conditions feel substantially hotter than the actual air temperature.
Monday Forecast Remains Uncertain
Forecasters say there is some uncertainty about how long Monday’s most dangerous heat will last.
A weather disturbance and accompanying front could reach the region Monday or Tuesday. If the front arrives earlier Monday, increased clouds, possible precipitation and a shift in wind direction could reduce afternoon temperatures and heat-index readings.
A later arrival would allow the dangerous heat to persist through more of Monday.
The front is expected to provide some relief by Tuesday, with temperatures gradually returning to the upper 80s and lower 90s. Periodic chances for showers and thunderstorms will continue during the workweek.
Heat-Safety Precautions
The National Weather Service says older adults, young children, people with chronic medical conditions, pregnant women and those without reliable air conditioning face an increased risk during extreme heat.
Residents should:
- Drink water regularly and avoid waiting until they feel thirsty.
- Limit strenuous outdoor activity, particularly during the afternoon and early evening.
- Wear lightweight, loose-fitting and light-colored clothing.
- Spend time in an air-conditioned location if a home becomes dangerously warm.
- Check frequently on older relatives, neighbors and anyone living alone.
- Provide pets with shade and plenty of fresh water.
- Never leave a child, vulnerable adult or pet inside a parked vehicle.
People working or exercising outdoors should take frequent breaks in shade or air conditioning and use a buddy system to watch for symptoms of heat illness.
Heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea and headache can indicate heat exhaustion. Confusion, loss of consciousness or an extremely high body temperature can signal heat stroke, which is a medical emergency requiring an immediate call to 911.