OMAHA, Neb. — A severe storm damaged the Qwest Center and forced swimmers practicing for the U.S. Olympic trials to evacuate the pools today.

Officials at the 7-year-old arena near downtown Omaha closed the building for the rest of the night after the storm blew through to check for damage. Superstar Michael Phelps and hundreds of other swimmers were herded into the hallways of the arena after a tornado warning was issued.

Hail, heavy rain and 50-mph wind tore through the city during the storm.

Water poured into the building, down arena steps and onto the deck of the competition pool. The eight-day meet to decide the U.S. Olympic swimming team opens Sunday.