Severe Winter Weather Hits Omaha This Valentine’s Day Weekend

OMAHA, Neb. (WOWT) – A severe winter weather day has been declared for Omaha this Valentine’s Day weekend, with snow and freezing drizzle expected overnight into Saturday. The Omaha area’s significant snow event follows one of its snowiest Wednesdays in recent memory, prompting residents to prepare for hazardous conditions.

As of Friday afternoon, weather models indicate that the Omaha region could see an additional 1 to 3 inches of snow by noon Saturday, with localized heavier bands potentially accumulating between 3 to 6 inches. A winter weather advisory is in effect from 9 p.m. Friday to 6 p.m. Saturday as a front pushes through, bringing cold air and moisture from the south and west.

“This winter storm presents a mix of snow and freezing drizzle, particularly south of Interstate 80,” said Luke, a meteorologist with Omaha’s Weather Leader. “The models are becoming more consistent, and while we won’t have perfect accuracy, we have a good idea of where the heaviest bands of snow are likely to fall.”

The snow is expected to start around midnight on Saturday, with the most significant snowfall anticipated early Saturday morning. As temperatures plummet throughout the day, residents can expect conditions conducive to icy roads and reduced visibility. The advisory alerts residents to potential slick spots, especially on untreated surfaces.

The heaviest snow accumulation is predicted for the areas around York, Tekamah, and Denison. Meanwhile, regions south of I-80 may only receive a trace to an inch of snow and are more likely to experience freezing drizzle.

“Temperatures will begin in the mid-20s, but expect a rapid decline throughout the day. By the afternoon, we’ll be hovering around 20 degrees with a noticeable wind chill,” said Luke. “After Saturday, the cold will intensify, with some areas experiencing wind chill values dipping to 10 to 20 degrees below zero by Sunday morning.”

The upcoming cold snap will dominate the weather through the following week, with afternoon highs in the single digits and nighttime lows potentially reaching 10 to 15 degrees below zero. Extreme cold alerts have been issued for early next week as wind chills may push towards -30 degrees.

Residents are encouraged to stay informed on weather conditions via local news stations or weather apps. “Having reliable weather information is crucial as conditions can change rapidly,” the meteorologist emphasized.

This winter storm will dramatically alter Omaha’s weather landscape, marking a stark transition into a frigid winter pattern just in time for Valentine’s Day celebrations. Residents should take the chance to prepare for significant weather disruptions, especially drivers planning evening outings or morning trips.