Hastings, NE – Dangerous heat is gripping central Nebraska Friday as temperatures soar toward 98°F, with heat index values up to 109 expected by afternoon. Residents from Hastings to Kearney and north central Kansas should prepare for oppressive conditions and limit time outdoors as a heat advisory is in effect from 1 PM to 8 PM.
According to the National Weather Service in Hastings, the advisory covers a wide swath of south central Nebraska and north central Kansas, where high humidity and triple-digit temperatures could lead to heat illnesses if precautions aren’t taken. The most severe impacts will be felt along key corridors including US-281 and I-80, with communities like Smith Center, Red Cloud, Holdrege, and Franklin all at risk.
Local authorities urge residents to drink extra fluids, stay in air conditioning, avoid strenuous activity, and check on vulnerable neighbors or relatives. Outdoor events and youth activities should be rescheduled or moved indoors, as rapid onset heat exhaustion is possible during the hottest hours.
Temperatures will ease slightly by Saturday, but high humidity lingers, with scattered thunderstorms returning to the outlook by Saturday night and Sunday. Additional heat advisories are possible if the hot pattern continues. Stay tuned to the latest alerts and take immediate action to stay safe during this dangerous stretch.
Five Day Hastings, NE Forecast:
- Friday: Heat index up to 109. High 98°F, low 69°F
- Saturday: Hot, then mostly sunny. High 85°F, low 64°F
- Sunday: Chance of thunderstorms, less hot. High 82°F, low 62°F
- Monday: Partly sunny, warm but less humid. High 80°F, low 61°F
- Tuesday: Mostly sunny, pleasant. High 84°F, low 68°F
