Many people will be trying to hit the road for Christmas weekend. Cody Thomas with the Nebraska State Patrol says the strong winds, bitter cold and snow will make for some dangerous driving conditions. He has some advice if you plan to be on the roads for the holiday weekend.
“If you get stranded and can’t run your car, expect to have those temperatures drop in the vehicle. So have that extra clothing and blanket. Have some snacks or food and some water,” Thomas says. He says make sure you have a phone charger and never leave your car.
If you do find yourself on the side of the road Thomas says you can call their Helpline by dialing *55 on your cellphone. “That connects you with a Nebraska State Patrol dispatcher who can then send a trooper, or if there is a deputy or an officer from another agency closer, we have communication with them too and we can send help.”
Travelers are also advised to check the most up to date travel conditions available through 511, Nebraska’s Advanced Traveler Information System. The system is available at all times via phone, online at www.511.nebraska.gov, Nebraska 511’s smartphone app or by dialing 511. Travelers are alsoencouraged to utilize NDOT’s Plow Tracker at plows.nebraska.gov where the public will be able to observe road conditions in real time from the cabs of NDOT snowplows.
A Winter Storm Warning is in effect through Friday evening and a Wind Chill Warning runs from 12 am Thursday through noon on Saturday.