Winter Weather Advisory: Lincoln Sees 62 Accidents as City Launches Nighttime Plowing and Parking Bans

A winter weather advisory remains in effect while heavy, blowing snow has produced hazardous conditions across the region. The city and police are reporting dozens of crashes and numerous motorist assists as crews shift into an intensified nighttime response — a situation that could worsen unless travel is limited.

Winter Weather Advisory: Forecast window, winds and accumulation

The Winter Weather Advisory is in place until 6 a. m. Friday, with wind gusts up to 35 mph and additional snow accumulation up to 4 inches possible. A winter weather advisory through the overnight hours increases the risk for rapidly deteriorating visibility and slippery surfaces on major routes and local streets.

Lincoln police and city operations respond to deteriorating road conditions

Lincoln law enforcement has logged a large volume of incidents since snowfall began. Officers have responded to or are actively working on 62 crashes and have handled 50 motorist assist calls to help vehicles that were stuck or high-centered. Police are urging drivers to slow down, increase stopping distance, clear snow from headlights and turn them on, and stay off the roads if travel is not essential.

City crews are actively plowing and applying granular salt pre-wet with brine on arterial, school, transit and emergency snow routes. Additional crews are scheduled to begin residential plowing at 10 p. m. A Snow Emergency has been declared effective at 8 p. m., and two parking bans will go into effect at 10 p. m. Road maintenance teams continue working to improve conditions while officers remain on call to assist motorists through the night.

Crashes on I-80 and Highway 83 underscore regional impact

Separate crashes tied to the wintry conditions have been reported beyond the city. One crash occurred on I-80 east between Gothenburg and Brady, with a portion of the interstate westbound closed as a result. Another crash was confirmed on Highway 83 south of North Platte. These incidents highlight that hazardous driving conditions extend across multiple corridors.

• I-80: Crash reported between Gothenburg and Brady; part of the interstate westbound closed.
• Highway 83: Crash reported south of North Platte.
• Local: Crash near Emerald blocked part of I-80 eastbound earlier in the afternoon at 4: 17 p. m.

Officials note that the situation is developing and additional updates may follow as crews and police continue response efforts. Drivers are reminded the best step to reduce risk is to delay travel until roads are cleared and conditions improve.

For residents preparing for the overnight period, expect targeted plowing on priority routes first, residential plowing later in the night, active parking restrictions where declared, and a sustained law enforcement presence to assist stranded motorists. With a winter weather advisory in place and gusty winds possible, fragile traction and reduced visibility are primary concerns through the advisory window.