Omaha Winter Storm: Snow Totals, Warnings & Forecast Updates

A major winter storm is impacting the Omaha, Nebraska metropolitan area, bringing heavy snowfall, strong winds, and rapidly falling temperatures. A Winter Storm Warning issued by the National Weather Service remains in effect for eastern Nebraska and southwest Iowa, including the city of Omaha, until 6:00 AM CST on Friday.

As of Thursday evening, heavy snow is falling across the region, with accumulations of 3 to 7 inches anticipated. The heaviest snowfall is currently concentrated over downtown Omaha and areas immediately to the north, extending along Interstate 80 into western Iowa. Areas south of the metropolitan area are expected to receive lesser amounts of snow.

The storm’s impact extends beyond snowfall accumulation. Temperatures have plummeted dramatically, with Lincoln experiencing a nearly 40-degree drop compared to the previous day, and Omaha seeing a 33-degree decrease. The “feels like” temperature is currently in the single digits in Lincoln and the low teens in Omaha, creating hazardous conditions for anyone outdoors. Strong north winds are exacerbating the situation, causing blowing and drifting snow, which will complicate cleanup efforts.

Travel is strongly discouraged throughout the affected region. Authorities advise those who must travel to exercise extreme caution, reduce speed, and allow significantly more time to reach their destinations. City bus service in Omaha was suspended around 6:00 PM CST on Thursday due to deteriorating road conditions, although limited service continued on ORBT routes until 7:00 PM. Both the City of Omaha and Bellevue public schools have canceled classes for Friday.

Meteorological data indicates the heaviest snow band is currently situated near and north of the Omaha metropolitan area. While earlier computer models suggested a more northerly track, the current trend points to the most significant snowfall settling directly over downtown Omaha and extending along I-80 across western Iowa. The intersection of Highway 370 and 72nd Street is experiencing particularly rapid snow accumulation.

The National Weather Service warning now includes Cass County, Nebraska, and parts of western Iowa, reflecting the expansion of the snow band. Areas from Weeping Water and Plattsmouth, extending northward to the southern portion of the Omaha metro, are expected to receive 3 to 6 inches of snow. A 6 to 8-inch band may include Bennington, Fort Calhoun, and potentially Fremont.

The current temperature in Omaha is 27 degrees Fahrenheit, with Fremont reporting 25 degrees and Tekamah at 28 degrees. These temperatures represent a dramatic shift from conditions experienced just 24 hours prior. The combination of cold temperatures and strong north winds is expected to lock the snow in place along a defined line, further complicating travel and cleanup efforts.

Forecasters predict snowfall will continue throughout the night, with a low temperature of 14 degrees Fahrenheit expected. Cleanup efforts will likely be hampered by icy spots on roadways and continued blowing snow, potentially making travel difficult in outlying areas even after the storm passes. While additional snowfall is not anticipated beyond Friday, temperatures are expected to remain cold through the weekend, with the possibility of sub-zero temperatures on Monday morning if wind conditions are light enough to allow existing snow cover to further reduce temperatures.

Looking ahead, temperatures are expected to moderate somewhat next week, although the extent of warming will depend on how quickly accumulated snow melts. The current forecast suggests a gradual warming trend by Tuesday or Wednesday.

Authorities reiterate that conditions are hazardous and urge residents to avoid unnecessary travel. The winter storm warning is in effect until 6:00 AM CST on Friday.