HASTINGS, Neb. – A calm, starlit sky spreads across south-central Nebraska early Monday, signaling the quiet before a sharp fall cool-down. After a mild, breezy start to the week, temperatures will tumble toward the mid-30s by midweek, bringing the region’s first widespread frost risk of the season.
According to the National Weather Service in Hastings, Monday will bring a brief warm-up, with highs near 66 degrees and a few sprinkles possible by afternoon. Winds will shift from the west to northwest by evening, ushering in a drier, colder air mass. By Tuesday morning, lows will fall into the upper 30s, and by Tuesday night, widespread frost is likely as skies clear and winds calm.
The coldest stretch is expected Wednesday and Thursday mornings, when temperatures dip into the low to mid-30s — cold enough to threaten outdoor vegetation across Adams, Clay, and Hall counties. Residents are urged to protect garden plants, disconnect hoses, and cover outdoor faucets.
Despite the chilly start, afternoons will remain seasonable, climbing back into the 60s under full sunshine through Thursday. Roads will stay dry across the I-80 corridor, offering smooth travel conditions for both commuters and harvest haulers.
Looking ahead, the region may briefly warm into the upper 70s this weekend before another cool front pushes through. Long-range models hint at a stronger cold surge near Halloween week — one that could bring the first fall freeze across the central Plains if skies stay clear.
Five-Day Forecast for Hastings, NE:
Mon: 66/42 – Breezy; brief sprinkles late, clearing later.
Tue: 62/35 – Sunny; widespread frost by morning.
Wed: 67/37 – Frost early; bright and calm.
Thu: 64/42 – Mostly sunny; cooler trend continues.
Fri: 58/40 – Partly cloudy; crisp, fall-like afternoon.
