This afternoon as Pony Express re-riders were approaching Scottsbluff storm clouds began to form from the west and north. 

The storm was expected to steer north of Gering and go over Mitchell. Part of the storm was observed moving east toward Morrill County and Bridgeport. 

Damage was also reported at the Scottsbluff Country Club. The golf course will be closed until further notice due to storm damage. About a year ago, the Country Club sustained devastating hail damage.  This year’s hail was reported to be smaller than in 2023. 

In the Mitchell community, winds derailed an empty coal train.  

Photographers also recorded what looked like funnel clouds developing. 

The Nebraska Public Power District is reporting outages in the Scottsbluff area. NPPD officials says the cause of the outage as of 4:45 p.m. was unknown.

* The National Weather Service this afternoon reported the possibility of severe thunderstorms in the Scottsbluff area.
 
Severe thunderstorms possible this afternoon with hail, strong winds, and heavy rainfall. Cannot rule out a tornado with any longer track super cells that develop. 
 
.DAYS TWO THROUGH SEVEN...FRIDAY THROUGH WEDNESDAY 
 
Severe thunderstorm potential continues Friday. 
 
Hot temperatures are expected for Sunday through the middle of next week. Highs exceeding 100F will be possible (40-60% chance) particularly on Monday. 
 
.Spotter information statement... 
 
Please report any severe weather later today to the NWS Cheyenne office.