A powerful winter storm is sweeping through eastern Nebraska, bringing steady snowfall and hazardous road conditions to Omaha and Lincoln. With the National Weather Service (NWS) issuing a Winter Weather Advisory, residents are urged to stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary as the storm is expected to last until 6 PM today.
Heavy snowfall has already blanketed the region, and road conditions continue to worsen as crews struggle to keep up with the accumulating snow. The biggest concern? Freezing temperatures and plummeting wind chills that could make conditions even more dangerous overnight.
How Much Snow Has Fallen So Far?
As of this afternoon, snowfall totals across eastern Nebraska vary:
- Omaha: Snow accumulation ranges from 1 to 4 inches, with more expected through the evening.
- Lincoln: Reports indicate 2 to 5 inches of snowfall, making roads slippery and increasing the risk of accidents.
The steady snowfall means roads will remain slick and snow-packed for hours, making travel treacherous for drivers. The Nebraska Department of Transportation is urging caution and advising travelers to stay home unless absolutely necessary.
Roads Turn into a Nightmare for Commuters
With snow continuing to fall, road conditions in Omaha and Lincoln have deteriorated rapidly. Multiple traffic incidents and crashes have already been reported across the metro area, as drivers struggle to navigate through snow-covered streets.
City plows are working around the clock to clear the main highways, but residential streets remain coated in ice and packed snow, creating serious travel hazards.
Key problem areas include:
- Interstates and major highways, where traffic is moving at reduced speeds due to ice buildup.
- Bridges and overpasses, which tend to freeze faster and have become particularly slick.
- Residential neighborhoods, where plows have yet to clear many roads, leaving them snow-covered and difficult to drive on.
Authorities are urging drivers to slow down, allow extra stopping distance, and use extreme caution if they must travel.
Bitter Cold and Dangerous Wind Chills on the Way
As the storm moves through, temperatures will take a sharp nosedive, leading to dangerously cold wind chills overnight and into tomorrow.
Residents should prepare for extreme cold conditions, which could bring frostbite risks in just minutes if skin is exposed. Anyone heading outdoors is advised to wear multiple layers, cover all exposed skin, and limit time outside as much as possible.
What Should You Do to Stay Safe?
With snow still falling and temperatures dropping, here’s how you can stay safe and avoid winter hazards:
- Avoid Travel If Possible – Roads remain hazardous, and conditions will only get worse as temperatures fall. If you must drive, go slow, keep your headlights on, and carry an emergency kit.
- Dress for the Cold – Wear thick, insulated clothing, cover hands, face, and ears, and limit time outdoors to prevent frostbite.
- Check On Neighbors and Loved Ones – Elderly residents and those without proper heating may need assistance staying warm.
- Stay Updated on Weather Alerts – Monitor local forecasts and emergency updates in case conditions worsen.
What’s Next? Will This Storm Linger?
The worst of the snowfall will end by 6 PM, but icy and slick conditions will continue well into the night. Sub-zero wind chills are expected overnight, meaning roads could refreeze, making the Thursday morning commute just as dangerous.
