The Nebraska State Patrol and Nebraska Department of Transportation are urging caution in extremely cold temperatures throughout the state for the remainder of this week and into next week. Any motorist who becomes stranded during this winter storm should stay with their vehicle and call for help.
“While this storm brings another blast of snow for most of Nebraska, an added danger comes from the extremely cold temperatures we’re expecting,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “If you’re traveling during this storm or over the next several days, it’s critical to be prepared in the event you become stranded.”
Much of the state is expected to receive new snowfall, with several inches possible in some areas. The snowfall will be coupled with strong winds, creating near blizzard conditions. This storm also brings extremely cold temperatures with bitter wind chills predicted through early next week. Wind Chill Warnings, Advisories, and Watches are already in place.
Motorists should always check the Nebraska 511 system for updated travel conditions throughout the state before attempting to travel in winter weather. Any motorist who becomes stranded can call the NSP Highway Helpline at *55 or 800-525-5555 and speak directly with an NSP dispatcher. If you become stranded on the road, stay with your vehicle and call for help. The vehicle is the best shelter from the elements and is the easiest thing for emergency personnel to spot while looking for a stranded motorist.
Motorists are encouraged to locate your local Emergency Management Agency to stay up to date on the latest information and access to vital resources.
All travelers are urged to keep a winter weather survival kit in their vehicle. Some basic items to include are: First Aid Kit, phone charger, ice scraper, shovel, small bag of sand, flashlight, blankets or sleeping bags, extra clothing and winter accessories, jumper cables, tow rope, tool kit, red flag or bandana, high energy or dehydrated foods, and bottled water.
So far this week, troopers responded to well over 550 weather-related incidents on the road. Troopers have performed 451 motorist assists, responded to 57 crashes, and assisted other agencies with 68 incidents.