Nebraska – Light rain streaks across windshields in the Omaha metro this morning as colder air slides south across eastern Nebraska and western Iowa. What starts as rain could briefly flip to wet snow, creating patchy slush on bridges and elevated roads before conditions improve later.
According to the National Weather Service in Omaha, rain spreading across the region may mix with snow as temperatures hover in the mid-30s. Most areas will see less than one inch of accumulation, though isolated spots could pick up 1 to 2 inches if heavier bursts develop.
Drivers moving through the I-80 corridor, Highway 75, and I-29 near Council Bluffs should watch for rapidly changing pavement conditions. Wet roads may briefly turn slushy when temperatures dip close to freezing. Slow down on ramps and overpasses where slick spots tend to form first.
The system gradually pulls east as the day progresses, allowing clouds to break later. While travel impacts should remain minor, the combination of rain, snow, and gusty winds could make for a messy morning commute across eastern Nebraska.
Attention then shifts quickly to a very different weather concern.
Meteorologists say dry air and strengthening southwest winds will create elevated wildfire conditions Thursday afternoon. A Fire Weather Watch is in effect for eastern Nebraska and southwest Iowa as winds increase between 15 and 25 mph with gusts near 40 mph. Relative humidity could drop to around 20 percent, allowing fires to spread rapidly.
Residents should avoid outdoor burning and secure anything that could spark flames.
Temperatures rebound into the upper 60s Thursday, offering a brief taste of spring warmth across the Omaha area before another round of unsettled weather arrives this weekend.
Five Day Outlook for Omaha, Nebraska
Wednesday: Rain mixing with snow early. High near 46°F with breezy conditions.
Wednesday Night: Clearing skies and colder air. Low near 31°F.
Thursday: Mostly sunny, breezy, and warmer. High near 67°F.
Friday: Partly sunny and cooler. High near 51°F.
Saturday: Mostly cloudy with milder air returning. High near 60°F.
