A hard edge of Arctic air cuts across the Missouri River Valley this morning as Omaha and western Iowa wake to biting winds and frozen streets. The early December chill has settled in fast, marking the region’s first major cold snap of the season — and one that’s expected to deepen through early this week.
According to the National Weather Service in Omaha/Valley, temperatures could drop below 0°F for parts of northeast Nebraska and southwest Iowa by Monday morning. Gusty north winds between 15 and 25 mph will drive wind chills into the negative teens, making even brief outdoor exposure uncomfortable.
Sunday’s highs struggle to reach the low 20s before another clear, frigid night sets in. Drivers should use extra caution, as flurries and refreezing pavement could lead to slick spots, especially on bridges and ramps along I-80 and I-29. Residents are urged to bundle up, protect pets and pipes, and check on neighbors without reliable heat.
Conditions begin to ease Monday with sunshine returning, but the air remains sharply cold — highs near 36°F with light winds. By Tuesday, the area begins a modest rebound into the 40s, though another chance of snow reemerges by midweek as the upper-level jet steers a weak clipper system toward the Plains.
Meteorologists say long-range models show a renewed Arctic surge between December 11–17, with the potential for another widespread Midwest snow event impacting travel before the holidays.
Five-Day Outlook
Today: Cloudy, high 23°F.
Monday: Mostly sunny, high 36°F.
Tuesday: Partly sunny, high 48°F.
Wednesday: Mostly cloudy, high 34°F. Chance of snow late.
Thursday: Clearing, high 40°F.
