HASTINGS — A High Wind Warning will be in effect until 6 p.m. tonight for all of south-central Nebraska, isolated wind gusts could reach up to 70 mph in certain areas.
According to the National Weather Service – Hastings, northwest winds will be sustained at 35 to 45 mph with gusts reaching up to 55 to 65 mph. It was noted that isolated gusts of 65 to 70 mph are possible west of Highway 281.
“Following a lull in high winds during the early morning, high winds will ramp up mainly after 8 a.m. initially north of Interstate 80 but then steadily overtaking the remainder of the area through the rest of the day before steadily decreasing this evening,” per NWS Hastings.
The overall-strongest winds should primarily target counties along and west of Highway 281.
“Very strong winds could cause damage to trees. Localized power outages are possible. Travel will be difficult, especially for high profile vehicles along east to west oriented roads. Localized poor visibility will also be possible in areas of blowing dust,” per NWS Hastings.
“Watch for blowing debris and falling tree limbs. Use caution if you must drive. Be prepared for quickly changing visibility in possible areas of blowing dust,” NWS Hastings stated.
There is a Red Flag Warning in place, but it is in place for north central Kansas and a few counties in southwestern Nebraska. Still an elevated fire threat is in place over the entire region due to the wind alone.
“The strong northwest winds today will steadily subside this evening, with speeds prevailing under 10 mph as direction transitions from west-northwesterly to southerly by sunrise Friday,” per NWS Hastings.
