Omaha officials provide update on tornado damage, rescue efforts [Video]

ELKHORN, Neb. (WOWT) – Officials with Omaha’s police and fire departments provided an update on their next steps after Friday’s disastrous severe weather.

Just before 4 p.m., a strong tornado ripped through the northwest corridor of the city, flattening homes in Elkhorn and causing significant damage, according to Omaha Fire Department Chief Kathy Bossman, who spoke with the media Friday evening.

Separate tornados impacted the towns of Bennington, Waterloo, and Blair, among others.

The American Red Cross has established an emergency shelter for displaced residents at the Common Ground Recreation and Aquatic Center at 1701 Veterans Drive in Elkhorn. Pets are welcome.

The Omaha Police Department also opened a command and reunification center near 204th and Maple Street in the parking lot of St. Patrick’s Catholic Church of Elkhorn. Officers — along with crews from the Red Cross and the Salvation Army — will be stationed there, providing assistance as …