Nebraska wakes up to a hard freeze and quiet streets, but the real concern flows along area rivers. Temperatures sit at 23 degrees in Omaha, and frost coats rooftops from Carter Lake to Papillion. Calm winds keep the air still, yet river ice continues to shift beneath the surface.
According to the National Weather Service in Omaha/Valley, ice movement on the Elkhorn and Loup Rivers may increase the risk of ice jams and localized flooding. Low-lying areas near riverbanks face the greatest threat. Quick rises in water levels are possible if ice blocks form. Residents near waterways should monitor conditions closely today.
Skies turn mostly sunny this afternoon, and temperatures climb sharply to 52 degrees. That rapid warm-up accelerates melting and increases runoff into creeks and streams. While roads remain dry, rural gravel routes near rivers could become muddy.
Tonight stays milder, with lows around 35. Thursday reaches 55 degrees under mostly sunny skies. Friday warms further to 58 degrees with light winds. Valentine’s Weekend, February 13-15, continues mild. Saturday holds near 58 with a slight chance of rain after noon. Sunday climbs into the low 60s with dry conditions returning.
Persistent warmth through early next week keeps rivers active. Washington’s Birthday approaches the mid-60s, and Tuesday nears the upper 60s. Longer-range outlooks show temperatures running 10 to 20 degrees above average across the central U.S. into late February. That spring tease feels welcome, but river conditions demand attention now. Are you noticing higher water levels near your neighborhood?
Five Day Outlook for Omaha, Nebraska:
Today: Mostly sunny, high 52.
Thursday: Mostly sunny, high 55.
Friday: Sunny, high 58.
Saturday: Slight chance of rain, high 58.
Sunday: Mostly sunny, high 62.
