Hastings, Nebraska – Travel across central Nebraska is rapidly deteriorating as up to 7 inches of snow piles up north of Highway 92, with blowing snow cutting visibility during the Thursday evening commute.
According to the National Weather Service in Hastings, a Winter Storm Warning remains in effect until midnight CST for Valley, Greeley, Nance, Sherman, Howard, Merrick and Polk counties. Snow totals between 4 and 7 inches are expected, with the heaviest amounts falling north of Highway 92. North-northwest winds are sustained at 15 to 25 mph, gusting as high as 35 mph.
Road conditions are becoming snow-packed and slick in communities including Ord, Greeley, Fullerton and Central City. Open rural highways near Sherman Reservoir and stretches of Highway 281 are seeing drifting snow that may briefly reduce visibility below a half mile.
The combination of steady snowfall and gusty winds is creating difficult travel conditions, especially on east-west roads. Drivers are urged to delay non-essential travel. If travel is unavoidable, carry extra food, water and a flashlight in case of delays and check Nebraska 511 for the latest updates.
Snow and blowing snow will gradually ease later this evening, but the warning remains in effect until midnight. Additional advisories are possible if bands redevelop overnight
