Nebraska – Calm skies hide a growing threat this morning as rivers begin to stir beneath breaking ice. Along the Platte and Elkhorn, water levels can change fast, even without rain, and low-lying areas face the highest risk.
According to the National Weather Service in Omaha/Valley, a Flood Watch remains in effect through Monday evening for much of eastern Nebraska and western Iowa, including the Omaha metro. The concern centers on ice jam development, where shifting river ice can suddenly block flow and force water levels to rise rapidly, sometimes by 1 to 3 feet with little warning.
Early temperatures sit in the mid-20s, but warming accelerates quickly. Sunshine today pushes highs into the mid-50s, followed by near-record warmth Monday with highs approaching the upper 60s. That sustained warmth increases ice movement and breakup along the Platte, Elkhorn, and Loup rivers.
Communities near riverbanks should stay alert. Areas at greatest risk include low-lying land near bends, bridges, and narrow channels where ice can pile up. Roads near river crossings, access roads, and trails could become impassable quickly if water backs up. Do not drive through flooded roadways, even if water appears shallow.
Tonight stays mild, with temperatures holding above freezing. That limits refreezing and keeps pressure on river ice. Monday remains breezy and warm, adding to runoff and movement before slightly cooler air arrives Tuesday.
By midweek, temperatures settle back into the low 50s, but river conditions may lag behind air temperatures. Even as the weather quiets, ice-related flooding can persist until rivers clear.
Looking ahead into the 6–10 day window, signals point toward continued above-normal temperatures across the central Plains. That supports a longer thaw cycle, meaning river monitoring will remain important beyond this watch period.
If you live near a river, stay informed, watch water levels closely, and have a plan to move quickly if flooding begins. Seeing ice movement or rising water near you? Share what you’re noticing.
Five-Day Outlook for Omaha, Nebraska
• Today: Mostly sunny, high 56°F
• Monday: Mostly sunny and windy, high 68°F
• Tuesday: Mostly cloudy, high 51°F
• Wednesday: Partly sunny, high 51°F
• Thursday: Mostly cloudy, chance of rain late, high 50°F
