A large area of rain pushed across the Central Plains from Wednesday night through Friday, in response to a strong, slow-moving upper level low pressure system traversing the area. Moderate to locally heavy rainfall was observed at times across south central Nebraska and north central Kansas, with rainfall accumulations totaling 1 to 2 inches in several areas by sunrise Friday. 

Following are a series of graphics depicting the evolution of this rainfall event, based on reports from both NWS Cooperative Observers, and also automated gauges at various ASOS/AWOS sites. The first two graphics depict 24-hour rainfall totals through 7 am Thursday (graphic 1), and through 7 am Friday (graphic 2). The third image then combines these daily values to show storm total rainfall through 7 am Friday morning.
 



 

 

Most locations across south central Nebraska and north central Kansas have been running a little below normal in the rainfall category for 2008.  However, this week’s rains have helped bring many locations closer to normal for the year, and even slightly above normal in locations such as Hastings and Hebron.  The chart and graphic below depict total rainfall for the year through 7 am Friday,April 18, normal rainfall amounts for the year through Friday, and the departure from normal (as of Friday morning, April 18).  

Site

2008 Recorded Rainfall
(through 7am 04/18/08)

Normal Rainfall
(through 04/18/08)

 Departure from Normal
Aurora 4.99" 5.25" -0.26"
Elwood 8S 2.35" 3.71" -1.36"
Grand Island 4.18" 4.70" -0.52"
Hastings 5.08" 4.83" * +0.25"
Hebron 5.50" 5.25" +0.25"
Holdrege 4.08" 4.30" -0.22"
Kearney 4NE 3.78" 4.51" -0.73"
Osceola 3.92" 5.23" -1.31"
Smith Center 4.21" 4.29" -0.08"
Beloit 3.82" 5.01" -1.19"
* Hastings 4N

 

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