Grand Island, NE – A powerful winter storm is set to bring blizzard conditions to parts of Nebraska and north-central Kansas late Tuesday night through Wednesday afternoon, with strong winds and accumulating snow creating hazardous travel conditions.
According to the National Weather Service in Hastings, the affected region could see between 2 and 5 inches of snow, with north winds gusting between 50 and 60 mph. These conditions could lead to whiteout conditions, making travel treacherous and potentially life-threatening. Visibility may drop below a quarter mile at times, especially during periods of heavy snowfall and drifting.
The Winter Storm Watch includes areas such as Grand Island, Kearney, Hastings, York, and Holdrege in Nebraska, as well as Phillipsburg, Smith Center, and Beloit in Kansas. The storm is expected to intensify overnight Tuesday, with the most significant impacts occurring during the Wednesday morning commute.
In addition to dangerous road conditions, strong winds could cause tree damage and power outages. Despite the wet nature of the snow, blowing and drifting are expected to create significant snow drifts in parts of the affected region.
Residents are urged to prepare for possible blizzard conditions by staying updated with the latest forecasts and avoiding unnecessary travel during peak storm hours. Emergency kits, including food, water, and warm clothing, are recommended for those in affected areas
