Nebraska – The cold bites hard as car doors creak open and breath hangs thick in the air. Wind sweeps across open fields, driving wind chills to dangerous levels across south-central Nebraska early today.
A Cold Weather Advisory remains in effect for the Hastings area through midday. Wind chills ranging from -15 to -25 degrees are expected this morning, creating a serious frostbite risk on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes.
According to the National Weather Service in Hastings, temperatures dropped below zero overnight and remain slow to recover. Even with sunshine later, the cold lingers through the morning commute. Outdoor activity should be limited, and proper winter gear is essential.
Road conditions remain mostly dry, but the cold introduces other hazards. Vehicle batteries struggle, tire pressure drops, and untreated surfaces can become slick. Drivers should allow extra time and keep emergency supplies in their vehicles.
Conditions slowly improve by afternoon as highs climb toward the upper 20s. Winds ease, reducing the frostbite threat. Still, shaded areas and bridges may remain icy as temperatures hover below freezing.
By Tuesday, sunshine continues and highs reach near 30 degrees. Wednesday brings a noticeable warmup, with temperatures pushing into the low 40s. That brief moderation helps, but refreezing remains possible at night.
Late week weather stays quieter overall. Clouds increase Thursday with highs near 31, and a slight chance of light snow develops late. No significant accumulation is expected at this time.
Looking ahead, the 6–10 day outlook favors drier conditions across the central Plains. Temperatures trend closer to normal by early February, though brief cold snaps remain possible.
If you’re heading out this morning, dress in layers, cover exposed skin, and check on neighbors and pets. How cold did it feel where you are today?
Five-Day Outlook – Hastings, NE
• Today: Mostly sunny, bitter cold early, high near 29°F
• Tuesday: Mostly sunny, high near 30°F
• Wednesday: Sunny and milder, high near 42°F
• Thursday: Mostly cloudy, high near 31°F
• Friday: Partly sunny, colder, high near 22°F
