Nebraska – A Weather Alert is in effect as light snow and increasingly dangerous Arctic cold are expected to impact much of central and south-central Nebraska from Friday through early next week.
According to the National Weather Service in Hastings, light snow accumulations are increasingly likely Friday into Saturday, with most areas expected to receive 1 to 3 inches. Portions of Kansas counties south of the Nebraska border have the highest potential for 2 to 4 inches, while snow amounts in Nebraska remain lighter but widespread.
The highest snowfall impacts are expected between noon and 6 p.m. Friday, with snow tapering off Saturday. Visibility reductions and slick roads may create travel issues, particularly during peak commuting hours.
Behind the snow, dangerously cold air is expected with high confidence. The National Weather Service says this will be the coldest stretch of temperatures and wind chills so far this winter. From Thursday night through Monday morning, wind chills are forecast to drop to −15 to −25 degrees, with some locations briefly colder during overnight hours.
Actual air temperatures are expected to remain below freezing even during the daytime, with some areas struggling to rise above 0 degrees Friday and Saturday. The coldest conditions are expected north of Interstate 80, though all of central Nebraska will experience hazardous cold.
Winds will not be exceptionally strong, but persistent breezes of 10 to 20 mph will be sufficient to maintain dangerous wind chills and cause blowing snow, especially in open areas.
The National Weather Service warns that prolonged exposure may lead to frostbite and hypothermia. Residents are urged to limit time outdoors, dress in layers, check on vulnerable individuals, bring pets indoors, and make preparations to protect pipes, livestock, and vehicles.
Confidence is high in the cold outbreak, while snow totals may still shift slightly within the next 12 to 24 hours.
