Winter Storm Spins Between Sterling and McCook, Bringing Blowing Snow and Hazardous Travel Across Nebraska Panhandle and Northeast Colorado

NEBRASKA — A developing winter system early this morning has undergone cyclogenesis and is now spinning between Sterling, Colorado, and McCook, Nebraska, creating windy conditions and areas of snow across the central High Plains.

The surface low is producing bands of snow that are wrapping around the system, with blowing snow and reduced visibility reported across parts of western and central Nebraska.

Surface Low Intensifies Near McCook

Radar imagery shows the storm circulation centered near the Nebraska–Colorado border, with snow extending north and west toward Gering, North Platte, and the Nebraska Panhandle, and south toward Colby, Kansas.

As the system strengthens, strong winds are developing on the backside of the low. These winds are lifting freshly fallen snow and creating blowing snow, particularly in open rural areas.

Winter Driving Conditions on the Cheyenne Ridge

Travelers crossing the Cheyenne Ridge, the Nebraska Panhandle, or portions of northeast Colorado should be prepared for winter driving conditions.

Blowing snow — sometimes referred to as “ground blizzard” conditions — can quickly reduce visibility, especially on exposed highways. Roads in open country areas may become slick as snow is pushed back across travel lanes.

Cities and areas impacted include:

• Gering
• North Platte
• McCook
• Sterling
• Surrounding rural stretches across western Nebraska and northeastern Colorado

Strong Winds Compounding the Threat

The primary concern with this system is not just snowfall totals, but the combination of very windy conditions and loose snow. Gusty winds are expected to continue as the surface low tracks eastward.

These winds can:

• Reduce visibility rapidly
• Create drifting snow across highways
• Make travel difficult for high-profile vehicles

Travel Safety Reminders

Drivers are encouraged to check official road condition resources before traveling through the region. State transportation websites such as:

• wyoroad.info
• cotrip.org
• 511.nebraska.gov

provide updated highway conditions and closures.

Motorists traveling across western Nebraska or northeast Colorado this morning should allow extra time, reduce speeds, and be prepared for sudden visibility drops.

For continued coverage of major weather events impacting communities across the country, stay connected with NapervilleLocal.com for the latest updates and developing conditions.