Hastings, Neb. – A sharp temperature divide, scattered storms, and wildfire smoke from Canada will shape Nebraska’s weather through Wednesday evening. Drivers and residents may notice hazy skies and reduced air quality, especially across central and southern parts of the state.
According to the National Weather Service in Hastings, most areas will stay dry for much of the day, but scattered showers and weak thunderstorms could develop in south-central Nebraska and north-central Kansas during the afternoon. Severe weather risk remains low, though brief downpours are possible.
A cold front is cutting through the region, leaving a wide range of highs: only the upper 60s to low 70s north of Interstate 80, while south-central counties could climb into the mid- to upper 80s. Winds from the northeast at 10 to 15 mph, gusting near 20, will help pull in wildfire smoke from Canada by late afternoon.
Officials warn that the incoming smoke may cause hazy conditions and degrade air quality tonight, particularly affecting those with respiratory issues. Residents are advised to limit strenuous outdoor activity and keep windows closed if smoke becomes dense.
Additional advisories may follow as smoke lingers overnight into Thursday.
