Hastings, Nebraska – Snow is rapidly filling in along and north of Interstate 80 this afternoon, with travel conditions expected to deteriorate before the evening drive as a narrow but intense band sets up across central Nebraska.
According to the National Weather Service in Hastings, a Winter Storm Warning is in effect for Howard, Merrick, Sherman and Polk counties until midnight Thursday, while a Winter Weather Advisory continues along the I-80 corridor. Forecasters expect 3 to 6 inches of snow in the heaviest band, especially north of I-80, with lighter totals south of the interstate. A sharp cutoff in accumulation is possible over short distances.
Communities including Grand Island, Kearney, York, Ord and Albion sit in the corridor with the highest probability of exceeding 4 inches. North winds gusting 30 to 40 mph will create blowing and drifting snow, reducing visibility and leading to slick stretches on I-80, Highway 281 and Highway 30. Travel impacts will peak between late afternoon and mid-evening as snowfall rates intensify.
Road crews will work to keep major routes passable, but drifting could quickly re-cover treated lanes. Drivers should slow down, increase following distance and avoid unnecessary travel after sunset. Blowing snow may also impact rural county roads, particularly in open areas.
Snow is expected to taper later tonight, but additional lighter snow could redevelop in central and southern Nebraska Friday night. Warnings remain in effect until midnight, and updates will follow if the snow band shifts.
