Hastings, NE – Drivers across central and eastern Nebraska could face sudden visibility drops and difficult travel today as powerful northwest winds approach 65 mph, blowing dust and light snow across major highways.
According to the National Weather Service in Hastings, a Winter Weather Advisory is in effect from 7 a.m. until 7 p.m. Sunday for areas north and east of Grand Island, including York, Columbus, Fullerton, and Ord. Snowfall totals will remain light — generally a dusting up to 1 inch — but strong winds of 30 to 45 mph with gusts near 65 mph could create reduced visibility and slick spots, especially on bridges and overpasses.
The strongest winds are expected during the midday and afternoon hours, making travel difficult for high-profile vehicles along Interstate 80 and Highway 81. Areas near recent burn scars may also experience near-zero visibility in blowing dust and ash as winds increase.
Most roadways should remain mainly wet, but brief snow bursts could lower visibility at times across eastern Nebraska communities including Lincoln, Fremont, and Columbus.
Behind the system, a surge of colder air arrives tonight. Overnight lows are expected to fall into the 5° to 15° range, while wind chills early Monday morning could plunge between -5° and -15° across much of central Nebraska, including Grand Island, Hastings, and Kearney.
Winds will gradually ease Sunday night, but the bitter cold start Monday morning may catch residents off guard. Officials recommend limiting time outdoors and dressing in layers as the coldest air of the week settles across the region.
