North Platte, NE – Blowing snow and wind gusts up to 40 mph are sweeping across central and north central Nebraska early Thursday, creating snow-covered highways and near-whiteout conditions that could worsen through the day.
According to the National Weather Service in North Platte, a Winter Storm Warning remains in effect until midnight CST, or 11 p.m. MST, for much of the Sandhills and surrounding regions. Snow totals between 4 and 8 inches are expected across Sheridan, Cherry, Grant, Hooker, Thomas, Blaine, Loup, Garfield, Wheeler, McPherson, Logan and Custer counties.
Communities including Valentine, Broken Bow, Mullen, Gordon and Thedford will see steady accumulation, with drifting likely along open stretches of Highway 83, Highway 2 and rural county roads. Strong north winds will push snow across roadways, sharply reducing visibility at times and forming uneven drifts.
Both the morning and evening commutes could be impacted as plows struggle to keep up with wind-driven snow. Rural areas may experience the most significant drifting, especially in the Sandhills where open terrain allows winds to accelerate.
Travelers should delay nonessential trips. If you must drive, slow down, keep headlights on and carry emergency supplies. Nebraska road conditions are available by calling 511.
Snow and wind will gradually ease late tonight, but drifting may continue even after snowfall tapers. Additional travel advisories remain possible if conditions deteriorate further.
