HASTINGS, Neb. – Central Nebraska drivers could face damp morning roads Wednesday as scattered showers bring slick spots across U.S. 281 and surrounding routes. Light rain and brief thunderstorms are possible through midmorning, but calmer skies are expected to return by Thursday. Motorists should allow extra travel time and avoid speeding on wet pavement.
According to the National Weather Service in Hastings, storm chances remain limited, with only a 20 percent risk of rainfall Wednesday. Winds will shift northwest at 10 to 15 mph, gusting up to 20 mph. By Thursday, skies turn mostly sunny with highs near 79, creating a more seasonable start to September.
Patchy smoke may also linger Wednesday night, with cooler lows near 50 degrees. Fire officials recommend avoiding unnecessary outdoor burning until air quality improves. By Friday morning, another slight thunderstorm chance fades quickly, leaving behind dry, breezy weather ideal for evening football games. Fans heading to local stadiums should still bring a light jacket, with evening lows dipping into the mid-40s.
The weekend looks clear and comfortable, with sunny skies Saturday and highs near 72. Temperatures remain steady into early next week, though isolated showers return late Sunday into Monday.
Residents should stay weather-aware through Wednesday morning, but confidence is high for several dry days ahead. More updates will be issued if additional storms develop.
Five Day Forecast for Hastings, Nebraska
- Thursday: Mostly sunny, high near 79. Low around 53.
- Friday: Slight morning storm chance, then sunny. High 68, low 47.
- Saturday: Sunny, high near 72. Low 54.
- Sunday: Sunny early, chance of showers late. High 71, low 58.
- Monday: 20% chance of storms, partly cloudy. High 72, low 58.
