LINCOLN, Neb. – Residents of Nebraska are bracing for an intense cold snap as the coldest air of the season arrives today and is expected to linger through the weekend. Snow is also anticipated, particularly from tonight into Saturday morning, creating potentially hazardous conditions.
A Winter Weather Advisory has been issued for parts of Western Nebraska, lasting through Saturday morning, while another Advisory has been activated for portions of Southern Nebraska from this evening into Sunday morning. Additionally, an Extreme Cold Warning is in effect for Northern Nebraska this morning, where wind chills could plummet to a staggering -35 degrees. Meanwhile, other areas across the state are under a Cold Weather Advisory, also warning of wind chills as low as -25 degrees.
Today’s forecast predicts a mainly cloudy sky, accompanied by bitter cold temperatures and breezy conditions. There is a 20% to 40% chance of snow throughout the day, increasing to between 40% and 60% tonight, with expected light accumulation. Winds will be blowing from the north-northeast at 10 to 20 mph, with gusts reaching up to 30 mph. Daytime highs are anticipated to range from 0 to 8 degrees Fahrenheit, while wind chills will hover around -10 to -25 throughout the day.
Saturday’s weather will continue to be mostly cloudy and frigid, though not as breezy. Snow chances will rise to between 30% and 60%, with light accumulations possible. Winds are expected to shift to the east and southeast at 5 to 15 mph, and wind chills will remain hazardous, ranging from -5 to -20 degrees. Saturday’s low temperatures will be around -10 to 0 degrees, while highs will only reach between 5 and 25 degrees.
On Sunday, the forecast calls for partly to mostly cloudy skies with a slight chance of snow. Low temperatures will likely be around -5 to 0 degrees, and highs are expected to reach 10 to 20 degrees. The following day, Monday morning is poised to start cold again, but a warming trend is predicted from Tuesday through Wednesday, with another minor chance of snow appearing midweek.
As Nebraskans prepare for these harsh winter conditions, it’s a reminder of the resilience needed to navigate winter weather extremes. Staying informed and cautious will be key in managing safety during this frosty period.