Nebraska greets the morning under calm skies, but change is already lining up beyond the horizon. Dry pavement and cool air offer a brief break before winter reasserts itself across south-central Nebraska.
Early conditions stay quiet around Hastings. Temperatures hover near the upper 40s this morning before climbing into the 60s later today. That warmth is deceptive. It sets the stage for a sharp transition by Sunday.
Clouds thicken late, and winds begin to strengthen. By Sunday morning, gusts ramp up quickly, blowing across open farmland and highways. Sustained northwest winds could gust near 40 mph, reducing visibility at times.
Snow becomes possible Sunday, especially during the afternoon. Accumulations look light, generally under an inch, but wind will be the bigger issue. Blowing snow may briefly coat roadways, including stretches of US-34 and Highway 281. Travel impacts could develop quickly during heavier bursts.
Plan extra time if driving Sunday. Secure loose holiday decorations and be ready for sudden drops in visibility.
Sunday night turns sharply colder. Skies clear, but the wind keeps biting. Temperatures fall into the single digits, with wind chills dipping lower. Any melted snow refreezes, creating slick patches early Monday.
Monday stays cold but calmer. Sunshine returns, yet highs struggle to reach the upper 20s. The cold lingers into midweek, reinforcing a winter mindset for end-of-year plans.
Looking ahead to New Year’s Eve and the start of 2026, conditions appear quieter but cold. Dry weather favors travel, though morning frost and icy spots remain possible after cold nights.
Meteorologists continue monitoring broader winter systems across the central U.S. Small track shifts could still influence snow chances locally.
Traveling Sunday or heading out early next week? Tell us what conditions you’re seeing around Hastings.
Five-Day Outlook: Hastings, NE
- Today: Partly sunny, mild; high near 64
- Sunday: Windy with snow chances; high near 33
- Monday: Sunny, colder; high near 28
- Tuesday: Mostly sunny; high near 48
- Wednesday (New Year’s Eve): Mostly sunny, cooler; high near 33
