Big Nebraska Tornado Remarkably Derails Train

Waverly, Neb. — April 26, 2024 — A devastating tornado tore through the heart of the Midwest last Friday (April 26), leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. Among the impacted areas was the vicinity between Waverly and Lincoln, Nebraska, where a BNSF train was derailed amid the chaos.

Midwest Tornado Derails Train Near Waverly, Nebraska

The powerful tornado, part of a series of twisters that swept across the region, struck the train around 3:25 p.m., according to reports. A representative from BNSF confirmed the incident, highlighting that the train was on its route between Waverly and Lincoln when disaster struck.

Thankfully, there were no injuries reported among the crew, and authorities have assured the public that no hazardous materials were released as a result of the derailment. Waverly, situated on BNSF's Creston Subdivision, found itself approximately 12 miles northeast of Lincoln, making it vulnerable to the tornado's fury.

A Second Train Was Derailed

The situation was further compounded by reports of a second train derailment, as relayed by the Lancaster emergency manager to the Rural Radio Network. This suggests the widespread impact of the tornado outbreak, leaving a swath of destruction and chaos in its path.

Not Just Derailed Trains

The Lancaster Emergency Manager reports a tornado touched down 4 miles southwest of Waverly causing a train derailment along Highway 6 and another trail derailment in the Highway 6 and I-480 area. Not only did the storm derail a train, but it also rolled over a semi.