Nebraska feels locked in ice this morning as clear skies reveal a hard, biting cold across the Omaha metro. The air stings exposed skin, car doors creak, and exhaust hangs low over quiet streets. It looks calm, but conditions remain dangerous.
A Cold Weather Advisory is in effect across eastern Nebraska and southwest Iowa, including Omaha and Carter Lake. Actual temperatures hover near 1 degree, while northwest winds push wind chills down to 20 to 25 below zero. Frostbite can develop on exposed skin in about 30 minutes.
Travel impacts build quickly despite dry roads. Pavement that thawed slightly yesterday has refrozen, creating patchy slick spots on bridges and untreated side streets. Drivers along I-80, I-480, and Highway 75 should watch for sudden loss of traction, especially early and after sunset.
The cold lingers through Tuesday morning. Sunshine helps little, with highs struggling into the mid-20s today. Winds ease slightly tonight, but temperatures drop back into the teens. Any moisture refreezes fast, increasing the flash-freeze risk.
By Wednesday, a gradual moderation begins. Highs climb near 31 degrees, still chilly but less punishing. Skies stay mostly sunny, offering brief relief for outdoor plans. Late-week weather turns quieter, with dry conditions holding through Friday.
Looking ahead, long-range outlooks show lower precipitation chances across the central Plains into early February. Cold air remains nearby, though extreme wind chills ease. Farther southeast, warmer-than-normal air may surge toward the Gulf Coast and Mid-Atlantic by early February.
For now, dress in layers, cover exposed skin, and limit time outdoors. Keep an emergency kit in your vehicle and allow extra travel time. How cold did it feel where you are this morning?
Five-Day Outlook: Omaha, NE / Carter Lake, IA
- Today: Sunny, very cold. High near 24°F. Wind chills near -25°F early.
- Tuesday: Sunny and cold. High near 25°F.
- Wednesday: Mostly sunny. High near 31°F.
- Thursday: Partly sunny. High near 24°F.
- Friday: Mostly sunny. High near 19°F.
