Hastings, Nebraska – Drivers across south-central Nebraska should slow down immediately as fog reduces visibility to near one mile or less in spots early Tuesday, creating hazardous travel along US-6, Highway 281 and stretches of I-80 through mid-morning.
According to the National Weather Service in Hastings, widespread low clouds, patchy fog and areas of light drizzle will persist through late morning before gradual improvement this afternoon. Temperatures will climb into the upper 40s and low 50s, but damp pavement and mist may continue to create slick conditions on untreated roads and bridges.
Grand Island and Kearney commuters along I-80 could encounter fluctuating visibility during the early drive, especially in low-lying areas and near river valleys. In Hastings and York, light drizzle combined with overcast skies may linger into early afternoon before partial clearing develops.
Conditions improve significantly Wednesday as temperatures jump into the upper 50s and low 60s under partly cloudy skies. The warming trend accelerates Thursday, with highs pushing into the 70s across much of the region.
That warmer air sets the stage for scattered thunderstorms Thursday evening into the overnight hours. Some storms could produce wind gusts up to 60 mph and small hail, particularly along and south of I-80 after 7 p.m. Thursday.
For now, motorists should use low-beam headlights in fog, increase following distance and allow extra time for the morning commute. Additional updates are expected if visibility drops further or if stronger storms develop later this week.
