OMAHA, Neb. — Damaging winds are sweeping across eastern Nebraska and western Iowa on Thursday as a powerful storm system brings hazardous travel conditions to the Omaha area before calmer weather develops ahead of Christmas Eve.
A High Wind Warning remains in effect through early Thursday evening, with northwest winds sustained at 35 to 45 mph and gusts reaching as high as 60 to 65 mph. The strongest winds are expected through the afternoon, creating difficult travel conditions, especially for high-profile vehicles on east-west roadways. Blowing debris, downed tree limbs and isolated power outages are possible, and residents are urged to secure loose outdoor items.
Light rain early Thursday may briefly mix with snow as colder air moves in, though widespread accumulation is not expected. Even so, brief reductions in visibility are possible in open areas, and rapidly falling temperatures could lead to slick spots on untreated roads. Afternoon temperatures are expected to drop steadily, falling into the 20s by evening as the winds continue to howl.
Conditions improve noticeably tonight as winds gradually weaken and skies clear. Lows are expected to dip into the upper teens, setting up a calmer and colder start to Friday. Sunshine returns Friday, with highs near the mid-40s and much lighter winds — a welcome break after Thursday’s blustery conditions.
The quiet pattern holds through the weekend. Saturday and Sunday are forecast to be mostly sunny, with daytime highs in the 40s and overnight lows in the 20s and low 30s. No significant storms are expected, providing favorable conditions for last-minute holiday errands and travel.
Looking ahead, Christmas Eve falls on Wednesday, and early forecasts suggest a mild and mostly dry day for the Omaha region. Temperatures are projected to climb into the lower 50s, with light winds and no major precipitation currently expected. While forecasts may still change, weather officials say the overall pattern points to a calmer holiday after Thursday’s high winds.
