Gov. Jim Pillen signed a proclamation declaring March 25-29 as Nebraska Severe Weather Awareness Week, during a news conference at the Capitol on Monday.
“Weather conditions can change very suddenly in our state,” said Gov. Pillen. “During this time of year, hail storms, tornadoes, and blizzards are all possibilities. These events pose risks to people, livestock, and property. Each year, Severe Weather Awareness Week reminds Nebraskans of the importance of being prepared for hazardous weather. I encourage all Nebraskans to take the necessary precautions to guard against severe weather threats.”
Nebraska Military Department Deputy Director Rick Dahlman announced the winners of the annual Severe Weather Awareness Poster Contest. Nebraska third graders provided tips for being prepared for disasters that can impact Nebraskans during the spring and summer. The top four students were honored at the news conference.
First Place: Felix Valivaara, Cornerstone Christian School, Bellevue, Sarpy County
Second Place: Natalie Kimbrough, Fredstrom Elementary, Lincoln, Lancaster County
Third Place: Lexi Holcomb, Arcadia Public Schools, Arcadia, Valley County
Fourth Place: Ava Boeckner, Springdale Christian School, Scotia, Greeley County
Honorable Mention
- Nora Sandberg, Adams Elementary School, Lincoln, Lancaster County
- Ana Martinez-Pinto, Emerson Elementary School, Columbus, Platte County
- Conner Price, Southern Elementary School, Blue Springs, Gage County
- Cora Flaming, Randolph Public Schools, Randolph, Cedar County
- Grey Meyer, Arcadia Public Schools, Arcadia, Valley County
- Konner Thelen, Randolph Public Schools, Randolph, Cedar County
- Maizy Popken, Logan View Elementary, Hooper, Dodge County
- Paisley Vanslyke, Loup City Public Schools, Loup City, Sherman County
- Shaelyn Hagan, Hitchcock County Elementary, Culbertson, Hitchcock County
[Photo Credit: Nebraska Emergency Management Agency ] Finalists in severe weather poster contest
Other speakers included Nebraska Weather Service Warning Coordination Meteorologist Becky Kern and Nebraska Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) Assistant Director Erv Portis. The first-place winner received a $125 gift card. The second-place winner received a $100 gift card, and the third-place winner received a $75 gift card. Kern awarded the fourth-place winner a $50 gift card. The winning and honorable mention posters will be featured in NEMA’s 2025 Severe Weather Awareness Calendar.
For more information on severe weather awareness, or preparing for severe weather, visit: https://nema.nebraska.gov/.