Weather Service Releases Tornado Report

This week, the National Weather Service (NWS) issued a report on the tornado outbreak that occurred with the severe weather that hit Southeastern Nebraska beginning Friday, April 26, 2024. Jefferson County was spared the worst of the much anticipated storms, although the areas did experience high winds, downpours and hail. Jefferson and Saline County Emergency manager John McKee said the local area received up to quarter-sized hail but damage in those counties was minimal. TornadoesOther locales were not so lucky. According to the NWS, “On April 26, 2024, a tornado outbreak occurred from central Nebraska into central Iowa, largely centered on NWS Omaha's county warning area. One of the more notable damage tracks stretched from just northeast of Lincoln, through the Waterloo and Elkhorn areas, and all the way to near Soldier, IA, in eastern Monona County. In total, NWS Omaha issued 42 tornado warnings.” On Sunday, April 28, Governor Jim Pillen issued an emergency declaration, which will allow the use of an emergency fund established under the Nebraska Emergency Management Act, to respond to storm damage in Douglas, Lancaster and Washington counties. On Monday, April 29, the governor toured some of the affected areas by helicopter.Pillen said, “It’s sobering to see what homeowners and property owners are now dealing with. It will take until the snow flies before some of these communities are truly back on their feet.”Tuesday afternoon, two more tornadoes northeastern Kansas, resulting in one reported death. ScamsWhenever there is a disaster, there are fraudsters anxious to take advantage of the unsuspecting. That is why the Nebraska Attorney General's Office issued a warning, “In light of recent tornadoes in Nebraska, many individuals and organizations will offer services to help those affected. Unfortunately, scam companies may use this opportunity to prey on those in need.” Keep in mind that the following scenarios may happen in Nebraska:Disaster relief scams: Scammers will strike after disasters, particularly when they know relief funds are coming in. They may impersonate NEMA (Nebraska Emergency Management Agency), FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency), insurance/warranty companies, lenders, or other relief entities as part of the scam. Staying vigilant when contacted is essential. Check the name, phone, email, address, or account of someone reaching out. When in doubt, hang up and contact the agency directly. Never send money except through verified channels. Rebuilding and repair: Good contractors and builders can quickly become busy when demand goes up. Vetting contractors is critical for those affected by tornadoes. Ask family, friends, or contractors with good reputations for referrals. Look for pictures of real jobs and verified reviews/testimonials. Get everything in writing. If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Insurance and warranty claims: Consumers should carefully read their relevant insurance and warranty policies. Understanding the scope and details of their coverage will help consumers better navigate the claims processes. For more significant claims, such as home reconstruction, consumers may want to get a price quote to better understand the costs of repair and restoration. The Attorney' General's Office recommends, “If you see signs of a disaster relief scam in Nebraska, report it to the Consumer Affairs Response Team at 402-471-2682. Our team can help shut down scams and go after those who seek to capitalize on a disaster in any unlawful manner.”

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