North Platte, NE – Dangerously cold conditions are expected across large portions of Nebraska tonight as the National Weather Service has issued a Cold Weather Advisory for much of the state, warning residents of life-threatening wind chills through Monday morning.
According to the National Weather Service in North Platte, the advisory is in effect from 6 p.m. CST Sunday (5 p.m. MST) through 8 a.m. CST Monday (7 a.m. MST). Wind chill values are forecast to drop as low as 25 degrees below zero, creating a serious risk for frostbite and hypothermia with prolonged exposure.
The advisory covers parts of north-central, west-central, and panhandle Nebraska, including Sheridan, Cherry, Holt, Grant, Hooker, Thomas, Blaine, Loup, Garfield, Wheeler, Logan, McPherson, Arthur, Boyd, Brown, and Rock counties. Communities impacted include Valentine, O’Neill, Ainsworth, Thedford, Burwell, Gordon, Mullen, Stapleton, and Hyannis, along with numerous surrounding rural areas.
Forecasters warn that exposed skin can develop frostbite in as little as 30 minutes under these conditions. The cold may also strain heating systems and pose risks for outdoor animals and vulnerable populations.
Residents are urged to limit time outdoors, dress in multiple warm layers, and ensure hats, gloves, and face coverings are worn if travel is necessary. Pet owners should provide warm, dry shelter and unfrozen water for animals, while neighbors are encouraged to check on elderly family members and those without adequate heating.
Officials also stress fire and carbon monoxide safety, reminding residents to use space heaters properly and never operate generators or grills indoors.
Conditions are expected to gradually improve after sunrise Monday, but bitter cold will linger across the region.
