Hastings, Neb. – Central Nebraska just wrapped up one of its coldest late-August and early-September stretches in decades, with both Hastings and Grand Island ranking in the top five coolest periods on record.
According to the National Weather Service in Hastings, the 16-day span from Aug. 23 through Sept. 7 finished as the second-coolest on record at Hastings and the fourth-coolest at Grand Island. Daily high temperatures averaged nearly 7 degrees below normal in both cities, making this stretch the chilliest start to September since at least the mid-20th century.
In Hastings, the average high reached just 73.9°F with lows dipping to 56.8°F. Grand Island recorded an average high of 74.2°F and lows of 55.9°F. These readings rival records dating back to 1935 in Hastings and 1896 in Grand Island.
The cooler-than-normal weather has kept air conditioners off, but it also means some crops may see slower development heading into the harvest season. Residents should also expect cooler evenings that could impact outdoor events, youth sports, and early morning commutes.
Forecasters say temperatures are beginning to rebound, but this historic cool stretch highlights how quickly weather patterns can shift across the Plains. More seasonal warmth is expected later this week.
