Cool and Active Week Ahead with Multiple Rain Chances Forecast for Central Plains

The week begins with partly to mostly cloudy skies across Nebraska and Kansas. While some stray flurries or light snow are possible in western Nebraska today with minimal accumulation, scattered sprinkles might occur further east. Highs will be in the mid-40s to mid-50s, staying below average.

A more potent storm system targets the region on Tuesday. Strong southeast winds will develop, gusting up to 45 mph. Temperatures will briefly warm into the 50s and 60s (possibly 70° in North Central Kansas) ahead of the system. Uncertainty exists regarding the exact placement and timing of thunderstorm development Tuesday afternoon, potentially firing up anywhere from Highway 83 eastward towards Highway 281 in Nebraska as a dry line pushes east. These storms, expected to move east through the afternoon and evening, carry a risk for severe hail and wind gusts due to strong atmospheric shear, despite limited instability. The activity should mostly move east out of Southeast Nebraska after midnight.

Behind this system, wrap-around moisture could bring rain and potentially snow to northwestern areas overnight Tuesday into Wednesday as temperatures drop. Strong northwest winds could also lead to some blowing snow in the Sandhills.

The unsettled pattern continues through the latter half of the week. Additional low-pressure systems bring renewed chances for rain on Thursday and Friday, possibly mixed with snow in western areas if temperatures are cold enough. Highs will remain cool, mainly in the 40s and 50s, with Saturday potentially being the coolest day. Forecast models differ on whether moisture lingers into the weekend or shifts south. Sunday currently looks drier, signaling the start of a warming trend expected for the following week.

What are the main weather threats this week?

The main threats are cool temperatures, recurring rain showers, strong winds (especially Tuesday), and potential thunderstorms Tuesday afternoon/evening with risks of large hail and damaging wind gusts.

Will there be snow?

There's a chance for rain to mix with or change to snow, primarily in western and northern Nebraska (Sandhills), especially overnight Tuesday into Wednesday and possibly later in the week. Significant accumulation is not expected at this time.

When is the best chance for severe weather?

Tuesday afternoon and evening holds the highest potential for strong to severe thunderstorms, particularly across central and eastern Nebraska.

How are you planning to navigate the cool and wet conditions this week? Do you think this unsettled pattern will linger longer than expected? Let us know!

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