North Platte, Nebraska – Snow will begin stacking up across western and north central Nebraska by midnight, threatening to slow or shut down travel before the Thursday morning commute begins.
According to the National Weather Service in North Platte, a Winter Storm Warning takes effect at midnight CST (11 p.m. MST) tonight and continues through midnight Thursday night. Forecasters expect widespread snowfall totals between 3 and 8 inches, with locally higher amounts possible. North winds will increase Thursday, gusting as high as 40 mph and creating blowing and drifting snow.
The warning covers Sheridan, Cherry, Grant, Hooker, Thomas, Blaine, Loup, McPherson, Logan and Custer counties, including Valentine, Broken Bow, Mullen, Thedford, Gordon and Stapleton. Snow-covered highways and reduced visibility could make stretches of U.S. Highway 83, Highway 2 and rural routes hazardous, especially in open areas where drifting develops.
Drivers should prepare for difficult conditions during both the Thursday morning and evening commutes. Keep an emergency kit in your vehicle with food, water, blankets and a flashlight. Check Nebraska 511 for updated road reports before departing.
Snow and strong north winds will continue through Thursday evening, with drifting remaining a concern until winds ease late Thursday night. Additional advisories may be issued if heavier bands set up.
