KEARNEY, Neb. — Blizzard conditions forced the closure of Interstate 80 and Highway 30 in both directions between Lexington and Lincoln as hazardous weather creates treacherous travel conditions, the Nebraska Department of Transportation announced Wednesday morning.

A Blizzard Warning remained in effect until 2 p.m. for the region, with wind gusts reaching 70 mph and snowfall totals ranging from 2 to 8 inches. Visibility dropped to less than a quarter mile, making travel extremely dangerous. Snow-covered roads, combined with high winds, have caused whiteout conditions and drifting snow across central and eastern Nebraska.

Authorities urged drivers to avoid travel unless absolutely necessary. Those who must be on the road were advised to carry a winter survival kit and prepare for possible delays. Power outages were also possible due to heavy snow and strong winds impacting power lines and tree limbs.

Officials warn that conditions may not improve until later Wednesday, with hazardous travel expected to persist through the afternoon.

Winter also returned to western Nebraska Wednesday with chilly temps and gusty northwest winds producing patchy blowing snow where snow fell overnight. Scattered afternoon snow showers were forecast to develop, but new accumulations were expected be a half inch or less outside of the mountains in Wyoming (where up to 3" is possible).

The Sedgwick County Communications Center reports unfavorable for travel in northeast Colorado. Travelers may expect high winds, scattered showers and poor visibility with drifting and blowing snow. Local reports indicated extremely slick roadways on Hwy 138 and 385 in Sedgwick County.

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ROAD CONDITIONS

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POWER OUTAGE MAPS

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