**Omaha, NE** – Residents are advised to prepare for frigid temperatures as a significant winter weather event approaches. With temperatures dropping to **the teens and even single digits**, it sets the stage for icy conditions moving into Friday evening.
Weather officials have designated **Friday as a FIRST ALERT DAY**, predicting the potential for winter precipitation that may severely affect road safety later in the day. The morning hours will remain relatively calm with **cloudy skies** and no precipitation expected, making the morning commute manageable. However, as the clock nears 4 PM, light **freezing drizzle** will begin to creep in from the southwest, creating the first signs of concern.
By **7 PM**, the drizzle is anticipated to become widespread, exacerbating travel conditions. Although early estimates suggest icing amounts could stay below 0.1 inches, caution is still warranted as roads could be at their worst between 7 PM and **midnight**.
As the evening progresses, a **surge of warmer air** is expected to shift the freezing drizzle to rain after midnight, especially for areas south of Omaha, leading to improved conditions by Saturday. The weekend will bring a welcome change with warmer temperatures and sunshine, putting an end to the icy situation.
Stay tuned for updates and take care when traveling during this potentially hazardous weather event!
Prepare for Winter’s Wrath: What You Need to Know About the Upcoming Snowstorm in Omaha
**Omaha Weather Update: Key Insights and Safety Tips**
Residents of Omaha, Nebraska, should prepare as a significant winter weather event approaches, with forecasts indicating that temperatures may plunge into the teens and even single digits. The National Weather Service has declared **Friday as a FIRST ALERT DAY**, signaling that winter precipitation could severely impact road safety.
### Weather Forecast and Timing
The weather pattern shows that **morning hours** on Friday will initially feature cloudy skies without precipitation, providing some relief for early commuters. However, by **4 PM**, conditions are expected to worsen with light **freezing drizzle** moving in from the southwest, marking the onset of hazardous weather.
– **Widespread Icing Expected**: By **7 PM**, the freezing drizzle will likely cover a larger area, and while early predictions estimate ice accumulation below **0.1 inches**, this can still create treacherous travel conditions.
### Travel Safety and Precautions
As the freezing drizzle continues into the night, road conditions are expected to be particularly hazardous between **7 PM and midnight**.
– **Advice for Drivers**: It’s essential for residents to exercise caution when traveling during this time. Here are some key safety tips:
– **Avoid unnecessary travel** during peak icy conditions.
– **Keep an emergency kit** in your vehicle, including blankets, food, and warm beverages.
– **Drive slowly** and maintain a safe distance from other vehicles to avoid skidding.
### Transition to Warmer Weather
After midnight, a warm air surge is anticipated, which will shift the freezing drizzle to rain, particularly affecting areas south of Omaha. This transition is expected to improve conditions, leading to a more manageable weekend forecast.
– **Weekend Outlook**: The arrival of warmer temperatures and sunshine on Saturday promises to dissolve lingering ice and provide a welcomed respite from winter’s grip.
### Additional Information and Resources
For ongoing updates and further details regarding the storm, residents should regularly check trusted local weather channels.
### Conclusion
Omaha residents are encouraged to stay informed and prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions. By understanding the timeline and taking necessary precautions, you can help ensure a safer experience during this winter weather event.
For more updates and information about weather conditions, visit weather.gov.