North Platte, NE – Wind-driven snow is sweeping across north central and western Nebraska early Thursday, with gusts up to 40 mph creating blowing snow and slick highways through midnight.
According to the National Weather Service in North Platte, a Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect until midnight CST, or 11 p.m. MST, for portions of north central, west central and southwest Nebraska. Snow accumulations between 1 and 4 inches are expected across Keya Paha, Brown, Rock, Holt, Garden, Arthur, Keith and Lincoln counties.
Communities including North Platte, O’Neill, Ainsworth, Ogallala and Atkinson will see light to moderate snowfall combined with strong north winds. Open stretches of Highway 83, Highway 2 and Interstate 80 could experience reduced visibility as blowing snow crosses roadways.
The combination of fresh accumulation and gusty winds may create uneven drifts, especially in rural areas and along exposed terrain in the Sandhills. Both the morning and evening commutes could be affected as plows work to keep primary routes passable.
Drivers should slow down, increase following distance and prepare for sudden visibility drops. For the latest road conditions, call Nebraska 511 before traveling.
Snow and wind will gradually diminish late tonight, but drifting and slick spots may persist into early Friday.
