Hastings, NE – August 2025 brought highly variable rainfall totals across south-central Nebraska, with amounts ranging from just over an inch in some areas to more than 7 inches in others, according to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Hastings.
The agency reported that most of the region received between 1.60 and 6.50 inches of rain, which equals 45% to 195% of normal levels. The driest counties were Howard, Hall, and Thayer, while areas south of Interstate 80 recorded the heaviest totals.
At the Tri-Cities airports, Grand Island saw the most significant shortfall, receiving just 1.04 inches of rain—only 32% of normal. That total marked the 16th-driest August in 130 years of records. Hastings fared closer to average with 3.48 inches, about 102% of normal, while Kearney logged 3.84 inches, or 127% of normal.
Despite the wide range, rainfall in Hastings ranked as the 45th-wettest August on record, and Kearney saw its wettest since 2014. Grand Island, meanwhile, experienced its driest August since 2020.
The NWS emphasized that precipitation maps should be seen as broad indicators, since localized totals may vary. Officials noted that August rainfall across most of Nebraska typically ranges from 3.10 to 3.60 inches.
This variability highlights ongoing challenges for farmers, residents, and local water managers as some areas remain drier than average while others benefit from above-normal precipitation.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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