OMAHA, Neb. – A sharp fall chill will settle over eastern Nebraska and southwest Iowa through Thursday morning, bringing widespread frost and the season’s first hard freeze to some communities.
According to the National Weather Service in Omaha/Valley, a Frost Advisory remains in effect until 9 a.m. Wednesday, with another Frost Advisory and Freeze Warning taking hold from 3 a.m. to 9 a.m. Thursday. The frost advisory covers much of east and southeast Nebraska, including Omaha, Lincoln, Beatrice, and Columbus, as well as Council Bluffs, Red Oak, and Shenandoah in Iowa. Meanwhile, a Freeze Warning includes Harrison and Shelby Counties in western Iowa, where lows may reach 30°F by daybreak Thursday.
The NWS warns that frost and sub-freezing temperatures could kill sensitive plants and damage unprotected outdoor plumbing. Residents across Lancaster, Douglas, and Cass Counties are urged to cover flowers, move potted plants indoors, and wrap or drain exterior pipes.
According to local emergency management officials, early morning commuters should allow extra time to clear frost from windshields. Rural areas north of I-80 may see heavier frost accumulation, with patchy freezing fog possible before sunrise.
Sunshine and lighter winds will help temperatures rebound into the mid-50s by Thursday afternoon, though another round of frosty mornings is possible heading into the weekend.
