The same powerful storm system that produced severe weather across eastern Nebraska on October 3 remained in the area the following day.

[1] This instability coupled with a strong wind field associated with the powerful storm system and created and environment favorable for significant severe weather.

Other isolated thunderstorms developed south along the dry line into western Iowa producing very large hail and damaging winds throughout the evening of October 4.

Multiple barns were damaged and cornfields were flattened as the tornado moved northeast, before crossing Nebraska Highway 15 and destroying several homes at EF3 intensity.

[3] As the tornado moved into the city limits of Wayne, it rapidly strengthened to EF4 intensity, crossing the South Logan Creek before turning to the east.

[5] Two men who were attempting to escape the tornado in a drainage ditch took a direct hit, and were thrown 30 yd (27 m) away, sustaining severe injuries.

[8][9][10] The tornado continued to move through the southeast portions of the town, striking numerous barns and farmhouses as it weakened to EF2 intensity.