Omaha, Nebraska – Christmas Day in Omaha is shaping up to feel more like late fall than winter, with mild temperatures expected to replace any hopes of snow-covered lawns for a second straight year.
According to the National Weather Service in Omaha, Christmas Day highs are forecast to reach around 57 degrees in the metro area, matching the record high set in 1946. Nearby locations will be even warmer, with Lincoln expected to climb to around 62 degrees and Norfolk reaching the upper 50s. Average high temperatures for late December typically sit in the mid-30s, underscoring just how unusual the warmth will be.
The mild pattern means Omaha is on track for another “brown Christmas,” continuing a recent trend away from snow on the ground during the holiday. Historical records show that Omaha experiences a white Christmas far less often than many residents might expect, with measurable snow on the ground occurring in only about one-third of past Christmases. Recent years have leaned even more heavily toward snow-free holidays.
The warmth is being driven by persistent high pressure and a lack of Arctic air across the central Plains, allowing temperatures to soar well above normal. While the conditions will make holiday travel easier and outdoor activities more comfortable, the lack of snow may feel disappointing to those hoping for a more traditional holiday atmosphere.
Forecasters note that Christmas Day temperatures will rank among the warmest observed in Omaha in more than six decades, though falling just shy of the all-time record high of 63 degrees set in 1963. Winds are expected to remain relatively light, adding to the mild feel throughout the day.
Looking beyond Christmas, the pattern remains generally quiet with no immediate signs of significant cold or snow returning to eastern Nebraska. While winter is far from over, residents may need patience before Omaha sees a more classic winter setup as December draws to a close.
