Hailstorm Devastates Fremont, Nebraska; Damage Reported Across the City

FREMONT, Neb. — A severe hailstorm struck Fremont on Thursday, causing extensive damage to homes and vehicles across the city. The storm followed a warning from the U.S. National Weather Service, which cautioned residents of hail reaching up to softball size and wind gusts soaring to 86 mph (138.4 km/h).

Residents reported shattered windows and significant property damage, with many claiming they were unprepared for the intensity of the storm. Local businesses and infrastructure also sustained injuries from the impact of the icy projectiles. The storm struck around 3 p.m., prompting immediate response efforts from emergency services.

“We were just sitting down for lunch when the sky turned dark and the wind picked up,” said Fremont resident Sarah Thompson. “The next thing we knew, it sounded like a bomb went off outside. We rushed to the basement for safety.”

The Fremont Fire Department and local police quickly responded to numerous reports of damaged roofs and fallen trees. Emergency management officials were dispatched to assess the situation, and local shelters were activated for those displaced by the storm.

“Our main priority is ensuring everyone’s safety and helping those who have been affected,” said Fremont Fire Chief James Redding. “We’ve never seen hail like this before in this area.”

As cleanup efforts began, city officials warned residents to avoid damaged areas and check on their neighbors. The city has established a hotline for residents to report storm damage and seek assistance.

This hailstorm is the latest in a series of severe weather events impacting Nebraska this spring. Earlier this month, another storm caused flooding in other parts of the state, highlighting the need for ongoing emergency preparedness.