Winter Storm — Thomas, Nebraska

2023-01-02 to 2023-01-03 · Thomas, Nebraska

Event narrative

Law enforcement in Thedford reported 18 inches of snowfall. Total snowfall amounts across Thomas County ranged from 16 to 18 inches. North winds gusting to 30 mph caused blowing and drifting. Most roads became closed with travel not advised during the event.

Wider weather episode

A winter storm moved into western and north central Nebraska during the early morning hours January 2nd and continued through the morning hours on January 3rd. The winter storm brought heavy snow to much of western and north central Nebraska, along with freezing rain during the early portions of the event across much of southwest, central, into eastern portions of north central Nebraska. Ice accumulations up to a quarter inch were measured. Heavy snow, with low visibility at times and snowfall amounts from 8 to 18 inches fell across much of the area, with the highest amounts reported in Custer County northward into north central Nebraska. Northerly winds increased to 20 to 35 mph during the later portion of the event, causing blowing and drifting.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 1069308. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.