LINCOLN, Neb. – NOAA’s newly issued Winter 2025–2026 outlook, released Thursday, Oct. 16, calls for a classic Great Plains winter across Nebraska — cold, windy, and snow-filled from January through early March. The Climate Prediction Center’s data shows above-normal precipitation and below-normal temperatures statewide, consistent with La Niña’s influence on the central U.S. storm track.
According to the National Weather Service in Omaha, “Nebraska is poised for an active winter. Expect multiple snow-producing systems and several Arctic surges.” Northern and central counties, including Norfolk, Grand Island, and North Platte, could see heavy snow totals, while southern zones near Beatrice and McCook may face occasional freezing rain and sleet.
Forecasters highlight late January through mid-February as the most volatile period, with blizzard-like conditions possible when strong low-pressure systems collide with plunging Arctic air. Travel along I-80, U.S. 30, and I-76 could be severely impacted by whiteouts and drifting snow. NDOT urges residents to prepare emergency kits and check road conditions frequently.
NOAA also warns that subzero wind chills could persist for days at a time, especially across northern and western Nebraska. March may bring only a slow thaw, with frost depths running deeper than normal and snowmelt delayed into early spring.
For Nebraska, Winter 2026 looks long, cold, and snow-heavy — a true Plains winter where readiness, fuel reserves, and caution on open roads will be essential.
