Nebraska’s south central plains are shaking off a frosty start, but a different threat is building as the morning clouds thin over Hastings. The temperature sits near 32 degrees now, yet a sharp warmup is already underway.
By afternoon, highs surge to around 61 degrees under partly sunny skies. Winds shift south to southwest between 10 and 15 mph, with gusts reaching 20 mph. That combination of warmer air, drying grasses, and gusty wind is prompting a Weather Alert for near critical fire weather conditions across parts of the area.
It does not take much this time of year. Fields remain dormant and dry. A stray spark or poorly controlled burn could spread quickly. Avoid outdoor burning today, and secure trailer chains along Highway 6 and Highway 281. Fire can move fast in open country.
A slight chance of showers arrives late in the day and into the evening, but rainfall amounts stay light. Skies clear Thursday with sunshine and a high near 62. Friday turns even warmer, climbing to 67 under bright skies.
The weekend cools again. Saturday stays sunny but drops to around 48. By late Saturday night into Sunday, a 20 to 30 percent chance of snow returns. With lows falling into the teens and 20s, any moisture could refreeze, creating slick patches early next week.
Looking ahead into early March, temperatures trend milder overall with periodic rain and snow chances. Spring warmth is trying to build across the Plains.
Five Day Outlook for Hastings, Nebraska:
Today: Partly sunny, high 61°.
Thursday: Sunny, high 62°.
Friday: Sunny, high 67°.
Saturday: Sunny, high 48°.
Sunday: Chance of snow, high 35°.
