NORTH PLATTE, Neb. (KNOP) -Scattered severe storms moved across the region Wednesday night, bringing large hail, heavy rain and some flooding concerns.

Some areas reported hail ranging from quarter size to ping pong ball size. Rainfall totals reached 1 to 2 inches in the last five hours, according to reports referenced in the broadcast script.

The heavy rain also led to water covering some streets around North Platte. Drivers are urged to use caution and not drive through flooded roadways.

More storms are possible tonight as conditions are monitored across greater Nebraska.

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HARTINGTON, Neb. (KTIV) – The 38th annual Tour de Nebraska bicycle ride started Wednesday morning, June 24, sending more than 200 cyclists from across 21 states on a five-day trip that begins and ends in Hartington.

Day 1 consisted of a 50-mile ride from Hartington to Vermillion, South Dakota. Tour Director Charlie Schilling said the weather was “absolutely gorgeous” as riders took in parts of Nebraska, South Dakota and Iowa from their bikes.

Ray Hanley, visiting from Little Rock, Arkansas, said he rides “three, four days a week” and has ridden in 30 countries. Randy and Therese Kiser said they have biked in several foreign countries — including Italy, Portugal, Croatia and Ireland — and decided to ride in Nebraska this year.

Schilling said the tour relies on community partners and rest-stop towns along the route to support riders and help create a good experience. Riders also pointed to support along the way, including food, access to bike mechanics and hospitality.

What’s next on the route

On Day 2, riders are scheduled for a 54-mile loop through Elk Point, South Dakota, and Akron, Iowa, before returning to Vermillion. Schilling said some cyclists plan to ride a “century,” or 100 miles, on Day 2.

From Vermillion, the route continues to Crofton, Nebraska, before the ride returns to Hartington for the finish.

Schilling asked drivers to be courteous around cyclists and help keep everyone safe.

Local rider finishes Day 1 in four hours

KTIV also spoke with Gabe Broz, a Nebraska rider who finished Day 1 in four hours. Broz said gummy worms and gummy bears are his “secret trick” along the trail.

Broz said the hills were not too bad, but the wind was “kind of a killer” for him.

Day 2 for riders is scheduled to include Elk Point, South Dakota; Akron, Iowa; and Spink, South Dakota, before returning to Vermillion.

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