High Wind — Wayne, Nebraska

2026-01-21 · Wayne, Nebraska

Event narrative

KLCG AWOS measured wind gust of 61 mph near Wayne, NE. Department of Highways report of an overturned semi trailer closing a portion of Highway 16 near Wayne, NE.

Wider weather episode

On January 21, 2026, a shortwave disturbance moving across the northern Plains drove a cold front through eastern Nebraska and southwest Iowa. Ahead of the frontal passage, northwesterly winds strengthened throughout the afternoon, driven by a tightening surface pressure gradient and deep mixing that tapped into stronger winds aloft. Consequently, strong, non-thunderstorm wind gusts overspread the region, with measured peak gusts ranging from 58 to 71 mph. Notable observations included 71 mph in Tekamah, NE, 64 mph near Verdel, NE, and 61 mph in Harlan, IA.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 1311320. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.