Phelps exits pool during storm

OMAHA -- Another swim meet, another storm.

Earlier this month, when many of the top American swimmers were here for the Swimvitational in a final tune-up for the U.S. Olympic trials, a tornado had whipped through Omaha in the early morning hours. Warning sirens went off and the swimmers huddled in the hotel basement.

Late Friday afternoon, a storm with high-powered winds in the 80-mph range hit Omaha again and this time swimmers were at the Qwest Center practicing for the trials, which start Sunday.

Gold-medal winner Michael Phelps was among them, said his agent, Drew Johnson, who was also at the complex at the time.

News reports said that no tornadoes hit Omaha, but water got into the Qwest Center, came down arena steps and onto the deck of the competition pool, according to the Associated Press.

All the swimmers were told to get out of the pools and the Qwest Center and adjoining Convention Center were closed to the public. It was uncertain if the building had sustained any damage. There were widespread power outages in Omaha because of downed power lines.

“They are assessing the building and it will be closed the remainder of the night,” said a USA Swimming spokesperson.

-- Lisa Dillman