By Scout Nelson
Nebraska will continue to experience elevated fire danger through the weekend. Strong north winds will persist through Friday evening, with temperatures more seasonal on Saturday, reaching the upper 40s to mid-50s. Subfreezing temperatures are expected statewide Saturday morning, putting early budding vegetation at risk.
By midday Saturday, high pressure will shift east, producing a tight pressure gradient over the Central Plains and Western Corn Belt. Winds of 20–30 mph will continue across the eastern two-thirds of Nebraska. Although temperatures will rise, south winds will bring dry air, keeping relative humidity low and fire risk high.
Sunday conditions in the Panhandle will be critical. West winds, warm temperatures, and low humidity will elevate fire danger across central and eastern Nebraska.
Early next week, Nebraska will experience very warm temperatures for late March. Highs are expected in the upper 70s to lower 80s in eastern and northern areas, with middle to upper 80s in western and south-central regions. Ridging on Monday will keep temperatures in the 80s statewide.
A cold front moving on Tuesday will slightly cool temperatures. While moisture will be limited initially, scattered showers may develop. Better chances of precipitation are forecast for Wednesday into Thursday, with shortwaves bringing 0.1–0.25 inches of rain in some areas.
Later next week, a deeper storm system will move from the western U.S. into the central plains. With high pressure off the East Coast, moisture from the Gulf could reach Nebraska. Timing of the system will affect precipitation amounts, including the potential for snow in the Panhandle and heavy rain in eastern Nebraska. Severe weather remains possible in the southeast.
Behind this system, temperatures will drop below seasonal averages, with strong north winds. A cooler Easter is likely, and some northern Panhandle areas could see snow.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-olga-ivanova
Categories: Nebraska, Weather