Nebraska – A warm, dry breeze sweeps across the Missouri River valley before sunrise, stirring dust along fields west of Omaha and brushing through leaf piles in quiet neighborhoods. Pavement sits bone-dry and the early air feels unusually warm for mid-November, signaling a day where even small sparks could spread quickly. Drivers on I-80 should stay alert for sudden gusts and reduced visibility in rural stretches.
According to the National Weather Service Omaha/Valley office, unseasonably warm temperatures and very low humidity heighten fire danger across eastern Nebraska and western Iowa today. According to forecasters, winds increase through late morning, especially in open areas north and west of Omaha. Residents should avoid all outdoor burning, secure equipment that could produce sparks, and delay any brush-clearing until conditions ease.
According to NWS guidance, increasing clouds return tonight as south winds strengthen. Saturday turns mild with highs near the upper 60s before a northwest breeze arrives. Sunday brings bright skies and a soft cooldown into the upper 50s, delivering a calmer window for errands, travel prep, or light yardwork. Fire danger drops slightly this weekend, but the region stays dry.
Into early next week, models hint at a broader November reset. Moisture increases Monday as a disturbance sweeps in from the Plains, bringing a chance for rain that could dampen parched ground. While Omaha stays far from any early snow chance, colder air consolidating across the northern Plains signals a “Winter Tease,” especially for travelers heading toward South Dakota or Minnesota. Those regions already saw early flakes and may see quick bouts of snow ahead of Thanksgiving.
Local drivers should watch for gusty crosswinds Monday evening and early wet pavement Tuesday morning.
Five-Day Outlook for Omaha, NE–IA:
Fri: 76/53 – Sunny; elevated fire danger and gusty winds.
Sat: 67/40 – Increasing clouds; breezy with northwest shift.
Sun: 59/39 – Mostly sunny; calmer winds.
Mon: 51/36 – Chance of rain; breezy north wind.
Tue: 44/33 – Cloudy; lingering light showers possible.
