Cold air cuts sharply across the Missouri River Valley this morning, the kind that makes every exhale hang frozen in the air. By late morning, Omaha, Council Bluffs, and surrounding areas will face single-digit wind chills that plunge well below zero after sunset.
According to the National Weather Service in Omaha/Valley, wind chills from –10°F to –20°F are likely through Friday, especially north of Interstate 80. Gusty southwesterly winds will make the cold feel even harsher. Residents are urged to bundle up, limit outdoor exposure, and prepare for dangerous frostbite conditions during early commutes and late-night hours.
Looking ahead, a 20–40% chance of snow develops Saturday as another Arctic boundary sweeps through eastern Nebraska and western Iowa. While accumulations should stay under two inches, even light snow may reduce visibility and slick untreated roadways. Temperatures will remain locked below freezing through Sunday, with highs near 16°F and lows around 0°F.
Friday offers brief sunshine and slightly milder air, but don’t be fooled — the deep freeze returns Saturday night, extending into early next week. Meteorologists warn that “flash freezing” is possible as daytime melting refreezes on shaded roads and bridges.
Beyond the weekend, models suggest a broader winter pattern could settle across the Midwest from December 11–17, potentially bringing heavier snow to the Great Lakes region and central plains.
Plan travel carefully and prepare vehicles for subzero starts. Keep blankets and emergency supplies in your car — even short drives may turn dangerous in these conditions.
Five-Day Outlook (Omaha, NE / Council Bluffs, IA):
- Thursday: Sunny, high 20°F, wind chills below 0°F.
- Friday: Mostly sunny, high 36°F, low 19°F.
- Saturday: 40% chance snow, high 31°F, low 8°F.
- Sunday: Mostly cloudy, high 16°F, low 5°F.
- Monday: Partly sunny, high 29°F, cold start near 10°F.
