As Winter Weather Awareness Day approaches on Thursday, Nov. 6, the National Weather Service in Omaha says Nebraskans should prepare early for an unpredictable season ahead.
Meteorologist Michaela Wood said there’s no clear El Niño or La Niña pattern influencing this year’s outlook.
“There’s really no strong signal either way,” Wood said. “That means equal chances for a normal, colder, or warmer winter. Everything’s on the table.”
Wood said the annual awareness campaign encourages residents to ready their homes and vehicles now. This includes checking heaters, stocking flashlights and food, and keeping car kits with scrapers, shovels, and jumper cables.
She added that proper winter gear and awareness of cold-weather health risks are essential once temperatures plunge. “January and February can bring wind chills cold enough for frostbite in minutes,” she said.
Travelers are urged to check 511.Nebraska.gov for road conditions and follow local forecasts.
The complete Winter Weather Awareness Day 2025 newsletter from NWS-Omaha is available below.