Nebraska wakes up under clear skies and biting cold air, with frost clinging to windshields and breath hanging in the air. Early travelers in south-central Nebraska step out into 22-degree temperatures around Hastings, where wind chills hover near 10 degrees and conditions feel sharply winterlike.
According to the National Weather Service, the cold fades quickly today as sunshine takes over. Temperatures rise steadily through the afternoon, reaching the mid-50s, a dramatic warmup for mid-December. Roads remain dry, but shaded spots may stay slick early, especially on bridges and rural routes. Drivers should use caution during the morning commute until surfaces fully warm.
The mild trend strengthens Tuesday. Mostly sunny skies push highs toward 57 degrees, more typical of late fall than winter. Snow is not expected, but the rapid temperature change could loosen ice and snow piles, creating wet patches by afternoon. For now, travel impacts stay minimal.
By Wednesday, temperatures remain unusually warm, topping out near 55 degrees under partly sunny skies. This stretch marks a brief break from winter, though meteorologists note it as a “temperature whiplash” pattern common this time of year. Residents should still watch for refreezing at night, as lows dip back near 30 degrees.
Cooler air returns Thursday. Sunshine continues, but highs fall to the low 40s, signaling a reset toward more seasonal December weather. No significant precipitation is expected, keeping holiday errands and local travel straightforward.
Looking toward the weekend, temperatures rebound again into the 50s, maintaining a mild pattern across much of Nebraska. While snow is absent for now, residents should stay alert for fast-changing conditions as winter patterns remain active nationwide.
Five-Day Outlook for Hastings, NE
• Today: Sunny, high near 54°F
• Tuesday: Mostly sunny, high near 57°F
• Wednesday: Mostly sunny, high near 55°F
• Thursday: Sunny, cooler, high near 42°F
• Friday: Mostly sunny, high near 55°F
