Summer-like warmth returns this week

Isolated to scattered severe storms possible Tuesday

Apr. 12, 2026 at 11:06pm

A sweeping, atmospheric landscape painting depicting a dramatic, stormy sky over the flat expanse of the Nebraska plains, conveying the overwhelming scale and power of the impending weather event.As a dramatic weather shift approaches Nebraska, the state's vast, open landscapes brace for the possibility of severe storms and rapid temperature changes.Lincoln Today

Temperatures in Lincoln, Nebraska are expected to climb well into the 80s on Monday and Tuesday, potentially challenging records. However, the warm weather will be short-lived, as isolated to scattered severe storms are possible on Tuesday afternoon and evening, particularly in southeastern Nebraska. A more widespread severe weather threat is expected on Friday, with the possibility of rain mixing with snow as temperatures tumble from the 80s back into the 50s and 60s on Friday night and into Saturday.

Why it matters

Sudden shifts in weather patterns can have significant impacts on communities, affecting everything from outdoor activities to transportation and infrastructure. Monitoring these changes and preparing for potential severe weather events is crucial for public safety and disaster preparedness.

The details

The warm weather is expected to arrive on Monday, with high temperatures reaching the low to upper 80s. This warm spell is forecast to continue on Tuesday, but isolated to scattered severe storms are also possible in the afternoon and evening, particularly in southeastern Nebraska. All severe weather hazards, including high winds, hail, and tornadoes, are on the table. The most widespread severe weather threat is expected on Friday, with scattered severe storms across the region. As a cold front moves through on Friday night and into Saturday, rain may mix with snow, and temperatures will plummet from the 80s back into the 50s and 60s.

  • On Monday, high temperatures are expected to reach the low to upper 80s.
  • On Tuesday, isolated to scattered severe storms are possible in the afternoon and evening, particularly in southeastern Nebraska.
  • On Friday, scattered severe storms are expected, with the greatest coverage again focused on southeastern Nebraska.
  • On Friday night and into Saturday, rain may mix with snow as temperatures tumble from the 80s back into the 50s and 60s.

The players

Lincoln, Nebraska

The city where the weather changes are expected to occur.

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What’s next

Residents in southeastern Nebraska should stay weather aware and monitor the forecast closely as the week progresses, as the potential for severe storms and rapidly changing weather conditions could impact their daily activities and safety.

The takeaway

This sudden shift in weather patterns highlights the importance of being prepared for unpredictable and rapidly changing weather conditions, especially during the transition between seasons. Monitoring forecasts, having an emergency plan, and staying informed about potential severe weather threats can help communities stay safe and resilient.