Hastings, NE – Gray skies stretch low over central Nebraska this morning, and the chill carries an unmistakable winter edge. The air feels damp, heavy — the kind that warns of changing weather ahead. As post-Thanksgiving travel ramps up, residents across south-central Nebraska are bracing for a sharp turn toward winter conditions later today.
According to the National Weather Service in Hastings, a Winter Weather Advisory takes effect tonight through Saturday afternoon. Rain will develop this evening before freezing rain and snow move in toward midnight. A trace to 1.5 inches of snow is possible near the Tri-Cities, with up to 4 inches farther north toward Greeley and Valley Counties.
By Saturday morning, the region transitions fully to snow and gusty northwest winds up to 45 mph. Forecasters warn of blowing snow and rapidly deteriorating visibility, especially along open stretches of I-80 and U.S. Highway 281. Drivers should expect slick roads and poor travel conditions through Saturday afternoon.
Wind chills will plunge below zero by Saturday night as Arctic air sweeps across the Plains. Sunday looks calmer but cold, with highs in the 20s under mostly sunny skies. The first week of December appears to continue this winter trend, with models hinting at another storm chance by midweek — a reminder that early-season travel could stay tricky well into next week.
5-Day Outlook (Hastings, NE)
Friday: Mostly cloudy, high 35°F.
Saturday: Snow, windy, 1–4 inches possible, high 22°F.
Sunday: Mostly sunny, high 27°F.
Monday: Partly sunny, high 27°F.
Tuesday: Mostly sunny, high 39°F.
