Omaha, Nebraska – Another surge of Arctic air is expected to move into eastern Nebraska late Thursday night and persist through the weekend, bringing dangerously cold temperatures and wind chills to the Omaha area.
According to the National Weather Service in Omaha/Valley, high temperatures during this period are expected to reach only the single digits to teens, while morning wind chills may drop as low as -15 to -30 degrees. The coldest conditions are expected during the overnight and early morning hours from Friday through Sunday.
Forecasters indicate that the coldest temperatures will likely affect northeast Nebraska and west-central Iowa, but the Omaha metro area will also experience prolonged dangerous cold. Wind chills in this range can cause frostbite on exposed skin in a short period of time, especially during prolonged outdoor exposure.
The extreme cold may also impact travel conditions, even without new snowfall. Any residual moisture on roads could refreeze overnight, creating slick spots that are difficult to see. Drivers should use caution on Interstate 80, Interstate 680, Interstate 480, and major surface roads, particularly on bridges, overpasses, and open stretches exposed to wind.
The National Weather Service urges residents to plan ahead, dress in multiple layers, and ensure exposed skin is fully covered when outdoors. Vehicles should be winter-ready, and motorists should carry emergency supplies in case of breakdowns during the extreme cold.
Residents are also advised to limit time outdoors, check on vulnerable individuals, and bring pets indoors during the coldest periods. Prolonged exposure to these conditions increases the risk of hypothermia and frostbite.
Commuters, students, and weekend travelers in the Omaha area should prepare for dangerously cold conditions beginning late Thursday night and continuing through the weekend. Additional updates are expected as the Arctic air mass settles into the region.
