A significant weather shift is set to impact Nebraska starting Thursday, as a winter storm brings cold temperatures and snowfall across much of the state. The most severe travel disruptions are anticipated along and north of Interstate 80, where the heaviest accumulation of snow is predicted throughout the day.
The Severe Weather Center has declared Thursday as a Weather Alert Day, expecting falling and blowing snow to create dangerous travel conditions, particularly in east-central Nebraska by the evening. Winter Storm Warnings and Weather Advisories will be effective across the northern half of the state, winding down early Friday morning in the eastern regions.
In Lincoln, a Winter Weather Advisory will be in effect from noon Thursday until 6 a.m. Friday, predicting accumulations of 1 to 3 inches. Snow is expected to develop in northern areas during the morning, building to peak intensity in the afternoon before tapering off by evening. Regions south of I-80 will see snow beginning later in the day, with the heaviest snowfall likely occurring during the evening commute when visibility could be severely affected.
The storm is driven by a shortwave trough and a surface low moving from northeast Colorado into central Kansas, leading to colder air influx and enhanced snow development. Forecasts indicate a sharp drop in temperatures throughout Thursday, with readings likely to fall into the upper teens and twenties. Wind chill factors will contribute to a sense of extreme cold, feeling like single digits and teens at times.
Snowfall amounts are projected to vary widely across the state. Areas north of I-80 may see accumulations ranging from 3 to 6 inches, with some regions in the Sandhills potentially receiving over 10 inches. Conversely, southern areas, such as those along I-80, should expect around 1-3 inches. Northern central Nebraska, including towns like Valentine and Ainsworth, may experience little to no snow.
Additionally, wind gusts between 25 and 35 mph will exacerbate visibility issues, dropping it to below half a mile in certain areas, particularly during the heaviest snowfall. As evening approaches, the combination of snow and gusty winds will make travel increasingly hazardous.
Looking ahead, while Friday is expected to be relatively calm, another shortwave trough may bring light snow to southern Nebraska Friday night, though accumulations should remain minimal, around flurries up to an inch. Subsequently, daytime temperatures in the following days are projected to stabilize in the 30s, with potential warming into the 50s and 60s by mid-week.
As the storm approaches, residents are encouraged to monitor weather updates and prepare for winter conditions, ensuring safety during potentially treacherous driving circumstances.