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KEARNEY, Neb. — A powerful blizzard that pummeled central and eastern Nebraska continued to create widespread travel disruptions and power outages Wednesday evening, with rolling closures extending along Interstate 80 from Cheyenne, Wyoming, to Seward, Nebraska.

The Nebraska Department of Transportation reported eastbound I-80 and Highway 30 remain closed due to treacherous conditions and communities at capacity with stranded travelers. Northeast Colorado has also been impacted by the rolling closures. I-76 eastbound from Sterling to Nebraska and U.S. Highway 138 eastbound was also closed. Wyoming Department of Transportation estimated I-80 and Highway 30 would reopen in southeast Wyoming in "12 to 14 hours."

Snowfall totals varied widely across the state, with some of the heaviest accumulations in Waco (12 inches), Shelby (10 inches) York (9.5 inches), south of Kearney (7.2 inches), and Lincoln (5 inches). Lighter amounts were recorded further west, including Bushnell, which received just an inch.

Travel conditions in the Nebraska Panhandle, southeast Wyoming and northeast Colorado returned to normal after roads were partially to completely covered in snow, ice and slush Wednesday morning. 

Beyond travel concerns, power outages remained a significant issue, with thousands of Nebraskans without electricity. Nebraska Public Power District (NPPD) reported as many as 12,000 outages at the storm’s peak. While crews have restored power to many areas, significant outages continued in Kearney, Aurora, Geneva and surrounding communities.

NPPD warned downed power lines remain a danger, advising residents to stay away from fallen lines and report them immediately. Snow drifts, fallen trees and strong winds slowed restoration efforts.

Officials urge travelers to delay trips until conditions improve, with high winds and residual snowfall expected through Wednesday night.

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ROAD CONDITIONS

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POWER OUTAGE MAPS

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