Nebraska starts the morning under a sharp chill as frost clings to windshields and breath turns visible in the air. The cold feels stubborn at sunrise, but a quiet and dramatic shift is already underway. By the end of the weekend, winter loosens its grip across south-central Nebraska.
According to the National Weather Service in Hastings, temperatures sit in the upper 20s early, with light northwest winds adding bite. Skies stay dry today as clouds gradually increase. Afternoon highs rebound into the low 40s, easing travel concerns on Highways 6 and 281 after an icy start.
Tonight turns colder again, with lows dropping near 22. Any lingering moisture could refreeze, especially on bridges and untreated rural roads. Drivers heading out late should remain alert for slick spots.
Saturday brings a noticeable improvement. Sunshine dominates, winds increase slightly, and highs climb into the low 40s. Roads stay dry, and conditions improve steadily through the afternoon. Saturday night remains clear and cold, with lows dipping into the upper teens.
Sunday delivers the real change. Bright sun and lighter winds allow temperatures to surge into the upper 40s. Snowpack continues to melt, and outdoor activity becomes easier. To be fair, it may feel more like late February than early January.
By Monday, warmth peaks. Highs approach the upper 50s under sunny skies, nearly 30 degrees warmer than early weekend readings. This rapid warm-up raises one caution. Melting snow during the day followed by cooler nights can create patchy refreeze issues after dark.
Tuesday stays mild, holding in the upper 50s before clouds slowly increase midweek.
Winter weather remains active across the Plains, but Hastings enjoys a quiet stretch. Heading out early this morning or late tonight? Let us know where roads felt slick.
Five Day Outlook for Hastings, NE
Today: Increasing clouds, cold start, high near 41
Saturday: Sunny, breezy, high near 43
Sunday: Sunny and milder, high near 47
Monday: Sunny, warm, high near 58
Tuesday: Partly sunny, mild, high near 57
