Hastings, NE – Nebraska residents along Highway 281 should brace for elevated fire risks and poor air quality through Monday, April 14. Gusty winds, prescribed burning, and dry spring conditions are fueling concerns across central and eastern counties, especially near Hastings and Grand Island.
According to the National Weather Service in Hastings, both an Air Quality Alert and Fire Weather Watch are in effect. The air quality alert will remain active until noon Monday, with conditions rated moderate to unhealthy for sensitive groups due to lingering smoke. People with heart or lung issues, children, and older adults are encouraged to limit outdoor activities and avoid strenuous exertion.
A Fire Weather Watch begins Monday afternoon and extends through Monday night, driven by gusts up to 40 mph and very low humidity. Regions throughout south-central Nebraska, including Greeley, Fillmore, York, and Adams counties, are expected to see near-critical to critical fire conditions.
On Monday, skies will be mostly sunny with a high near 61°F. Strong northwesterly winds may peak at 25 mph, prompting caution for outdoor burning or fieldwork. Tuesday brings clear, calmer conditions with highs around 68°F, offering brief relief before rain chances return later in the week.
5-Day Forecast for Hastings, NE:
- Monday: Sunny, breezy, high near 61°F
- Tuesday: Sunny and calm, high near 68°F
- Wednesday: Mostly sunny, slight shower chance late, high near 80°F
- Thursday: Isolated showers and storms, high near 85°F
- Friday: Mostly sunny, high around 68°F
