A fast-moving storm swept through North Platte on Saturday evening, causing a sudden halt to various entertainment events in the area. With high winds and hail, the storm arrived at around 7:40 p.m. from the north and quickly reduced visibility to almost zero within minutes. The relentless downpour was soon accompanied by pounding hail, creating a disruptive and challenging situation.
However, the storm front passed through relatively swiftly, lasting only about 20 minutes. By the time the sky cleared, the sun had not yet set, and the North Platte Regional Airport recorded just a quarter-inch of rainfall. Despite the brevity of the storm, its impact on outdoor activities was significant.
Among the events affected were The Long Run concert at Another Round and Riverside Golf Course, the Plainsman baseball game, the Relay for Life at Bill Wood Field, and the Heartland Truck and Tractor pull at the fairgrounds. The storm struck just as four tractors had begun their run at the fairgrounds, prompting officials to urge fans to seek shelter below the grandstands. Fortunately, after the storm passed, many spectators returned to their seats. To ensure a smooth restart of the pulling contest, tractors equipped with scrapers were deployed to clear the track of mud. The organizers also decided to make the event free of charge, opening the gates to the public.
At the Riverside Golf Course, The Long Run concert had to be canceled due to the inclement weather. Tanner Struckman, the event organizer from Husker Radio, expressed his desire to reschedule the concert for ticket holders, emphasizing the word try due to various factors that need to be considered. Despite the disappointment, the golf tournament preceding the concert was successful. Under a warm and sunny sky, 25 four-man teams had an enjoyable day on the course while raising money for charity.
The National Weather Service in North Platte provided a radar image of the storm at 7:48 p.m., clearly depicting its intensity and trajectory. Overall, the fast-moving storm had a significant impact on the evening’s entertainment schedule, forcing organizers to adapt and make necessary adjustments. The unexpected downpour and hail not only led to the temporary suspension of events but also provided an opportunity for the community to come together and overcome the challenges posed by Mother Nature.
