Omaha, Nebraska – A mid-January warm-up could bring periods of rain to parts of Nebraska and Iowa while increasing the risk of freezing rain and icy travel conditions in colder northern areas as temperatures fluctuate near freezing.
According to the National Weather Service Climate Prediction Center, eastern Nebraska and much of Iowa are favored to see above-normal temperatures during the January 9–13 period, with precipitation trending near normal. This pattern often supports rain across southern areas while allowing freezing rain or a wintry mix farther north where cold air lingers near the surface.
Northern Iowa and northeastern Nebraska, including Sioux City, Mason City, and areas near the Minnesota border, face the highest risk for freezing rain, particularly during overnight and early morning hours. Even light ice accumulation could create hazardous travel on I-29, I-35, U.S. 20, and untreated rural highways.
Farther south, including Omaha, Lincoln, Des Moines, and Council Bluffs, precipitation is more likely to fall as rain, limiting snow potential but leading to wet roads and reduced visibility during heavier showers. Brief nighttime cooling could still allow isolated slick spots to form on bridges and overpasses.
Drivers across the region are encouraged to monitor changing conditions closely and allow extra travel time as temperatures fluctuate. Additional advisories may be issued closer to mid-January, especially if colder air lingers longer than expected across northern portions of Nebraska and Iowa.
