Nebraska Officials Warn Drivers About Icy Bridges as Winter Conditions Grip the State
OMAHA, Neb. — As cold air grips the Great Plains and snow begins to blanket parts of the state, Nebraska transportation and weather officials are urging drivers in Omaha, Lincoln, and Grand Island to take extra caution when crossing bridges and overpasses that are freezing faster than standard roadways.
The National Weather Service (NWS) says bridges are particularly hazardous during early winter cold snaps because they lose heat from both above and below, while regular roads retain some warmth from the ground. Meteorologists warned that black ice can form even when air temperatures are only slightly below freezing, making it one of the most dangerous hazards for motorists.
Transportation Crews Begin Winter Treatment
The Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT) confirmed that it has already started pre-treating major routes, including Interstate 80, U.S. Highway 81, and Highway 34, with brine and salt mixtures to reduce ice formation. Maintenance teams are focusing on elevated sections, highway ramps, and interchanges where freezing occurs most rapidly.
Drivers are being advised to slow down before bridges, avoid sudden braking, and maintain steady speed and spacing. Officials say that even light precipitation or fog can create slick conditions overnight and into early mornings.
“Bridges can ice up even when air temperatures are only slightly below freezing,” NWS meteorologists explained. “That makes black ice one of the first and most dangerous winter hazards.”
Safety Tips for Nebraska Drivers
The NDOT recommends several safety measures as winter weather intensifies across eastern and central Nebraska:
- Reduce speed and approach bridges or overpasses cautiously.
- Avoid using cruise control when roads may be slick.
- Increase following distance to allow more time to stop.
- Check tire pressure and tread before travel.
- Stay alert for changing conditions on shaded or elevated surfaces.
Officials also remind drivers that freezing can occur quickly during temperature drops, especially overnight and during early morning commutes.
Monitoring Conditions in Real Time
Motorists can stay informed through 511.nebraska.gov, where NDOT provides real-time updates on road closures, weather conditions, and traffic cameras across the state. The department also posts alerts via @NebraskaDOT on social media for travelers preparing long-distance drives.
The current forecast calls for cold mornings in the teens across the state with potential for flurries later in the week, particularly along I-80 corridors. As Nebraska heads deeper into the winter season, officials say vigilance behind the wheel will be key to preventing early-season accidents.
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I’ve lived in Naperville long enough to see how quickly our community changes — from new developments downtown to sudden shifts in our Midwest weather. Reporting on Naperville news and daily forecasts gives me the chance to keep neighbors informed about what really matters. My goal is simple: deliver clear, timely updates so you always know what’s happening in our city and what to expect from the skies above.