SCOTTSBLUFF, Neb. — May 18, 2025 — A destructive severe thunderstorm tore through Scotts Bluff County late Sunday afternoon, prompting urgent warnings from the National Weather Service as the storm produced wind gusts nearing hurricane strength.

At 5:18 p.m., trained weather spotters reported a severe storm over Lake Alice Number 2, about 7 miles northeast of Scottsbluff, moving northeast at 60 miles per hour. The storm was packing wind gusts up to 80 miles per hour and penny-size hail, posing a significant threat to life and property.

The National Weather Service classified this as a destructive storm, warning that mobile homes could be heavily damaged and that roofs, windows, and vehicles were at risk. Flying debris and falling trees were also likely. Power outages were expected due to widespread wind damage.

Communities in the path of the storm included Scottsbluff, Gering, Mitchell, Bayard, Terrytown, Morrill, Minatare, Melbeta, and McGrew, as well as Lake Minatare State Recreation Area, Scotts Bluff National Monument, and the Scotts Bluff County Fairground.

Residents were urged to seek immediate shelter in an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building. The warning remains in effect until 6:00 p.m. MDT.

A Tornado Watch also remains in effect until 8:00 p.m. MDT for the Nebraska Panhandle.