Weather Could Affect Nebraska's State Track Meet

May 16, 2019, 2:49 p.m. ·

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Inclement weather could affect the Nebraska State High School Track and Field meet this weekend. The possibility of strong storms still remain. However, the chances have decreased throughout this week.


The Nebraska School Activities Association (NSAA) estimates between 25,000 - 26,000 spectators will make their way to Omaha Burke High School for the meet Friday and Saturday. Nate Neuhaus, NSAA assistant director, said field-event participants will need to be extra careful if there are storms, but he’s optimistic.

“Honestly, I looked at the weather and I think it looks OK," Neuhaus said. "They’re calling for some storms, but I think we’re going to be just fine. Friday is going to be beautiful and hot. Saturday is going to be a little cooler with some clouds, maybe some rain here and there, but I think we’re going to be OK and be just fine.”

Neuhaus said rain is manageable for both spectators and the participants, but lighting would chase everyone off the track. Jason Williams, Omaha Burke’s athletic director, said Burke and the NSAA have a plan if the weather takes a turn for the worst.

“Some people might go in their cars, some people might decide to stay, we can’t physically remove anybody," Williams said. "As far as the athletes and coaches, they’ll go down to the storm shelter in the basement. Anybody else, any other spectators, we would look to either put in the gym or it might spill over into the cafeteria.”

Williams and Nuehaus encourage everyone to be prepared for all kinds of weather in order to enjoy the track meet.