By Andrew Coughlin, OMAHA, Neb. – When the tornado sirens went off on the afternoon of April 26, 2024, many residents of Elkhorn had only minutes to seek shelter. By the time the skies cleared, much of the eastern town was unrecognizable. An EF-4 tornado with estimated wind speeds of 175 miles per hour had cut a devastating path through the heart of this Nebraska town. Five people were injured, and more than 350 homes and businesses were damaged or destroyed. Almost a year later, the town is still healing, but with a new sense of urgency around tornado awareness and disaster preparedness.
Rebuilding and Recovery
Recovery in Elkhorn has been steady but emotional. In the months following the storm, neighbors came together to rebuild homes and support families who were affected by the disaster, ranging in severity from minor damage to complete home destruction.
While the National Weather Service had issued a tornado warning 15 minutes before the storm hit, some residents said they didn’t receive alerts in time, or were unsure about how serious the risk was. As these types of massive storms occur, Omaha is gearing up in preparation for 2025’s tornado season. Earlier this year, Governor Jim Pillen declared the week of March 25th – March 30th as Severe Weather Awareness Week. As tornado season ramps up, the message is clear: be alert, be informed, and be ready to weather the storm.
Lessons from the Storm
Reflecting on last year’s disaster and community member’s level of readiness, we spoke to Ashley Pfiefer of Saint Patrick’s Church in Elkhorn, who spearheaded rescue and recovery efforts in response to the tornadoes. “It was determined that we don’t really have a long-term recovery group, like a disaster preparedness plan. There was none at all whatsoever. And so, everybody was just kinda like learning on the fly as we went.”
Overall, it’s up to the citizens of Omaha to prepare themselves for coming storm warnings. Having survival supplies in place, and taking proper shelter are key steps one should take to prepare.
