Winter Storm Triggers 62 Crashes in Lincoln as Police Urge Residents to Stay Off Roads

A powerful winter storm sweeping through Lincoln on Thursday led to dozens of traffic accidents and hazardous road conditions, prompting local authorities to strongly urge residents to avoid unnecessary travel.

According to the Lincoln Police Department (LPD), officers had responded to or were actively investigating 62 crashes as of shortly before 9 p.m. Lt. Dustin Romshek provided the update as snowfall continued to intensify across the city. In addition to collision reports, officers handled approximately 50 motorist assist calls, aiding drivers whose vehicles had become stuck or high-centered in snow-covered streets.

The storm began moving into the area Thursday afternoon, quickly creating slick and snow-packed roadways. As conditions deteriorated into the evening hours, visibility declined and traction became increasingly limited, contributing to the high number of incidents.

Authorities emphasized that road conditions remain dangerous and unpredictable. “Road conditions are still bad,” Lt. Romshek said, noting that city crews continue working to improve travel conditions. The Lincoln Transportation and Utilities Department has deployed plows and treatment vehicles in an ongoing effort to clear primary routes, but persistent snowfall and blowing snow have slowed progress.

Compounding local travel concerns, the Nebraska Department of Transportation reported a separate crash affecting Interstate 80 eastbound near Emerald earlier in the afternoon. According to the state’s traffic monitoring system, the incident partially blocked traffic around 4:17 p.m., creating additional delays for motorists traveling in and out of the Lincoln area.

City officials have issued a Snow Emergency for Lincoln, and a Winter Storm Warning remains in effect through Friday morning. Under a Snow Emergency, parking restrictions may apply along designated emergency routes to allow plows to operate more effectively. Residents are encouraged to check local guidelines and comply with posted restrictions to facilitate snow removal efforts.

Law enforcement officials are advising drivers who must travel to exercise extreme caution. Recommended safety measures include reducing speeds well below posted limits, allowing extra stopping distance between vehicles, clearing all snow and ice from headlights and taillights, and ensuring headlights are turned on to improve visibility. Drivers are also reminded to clear snow from vehicle roofs to prevent it from blowing onto windshields or other vehicles.

Emergency responders continue to monitor conditions and remain prepared to assist as necessary. Police and fire personnel have been working throughout the storm to address accidents, stalled vehicles, and other weather-related incidents. Authorities stress that limiting traffic volume is one of the most effective ways to reduce crashes and allow emergency crews to respond more efficiently.

While no widespread reports of severe injuries had been confirmed as of late Thursday night, officials cautioned that conditions can change rapidly. Ice accumulation beneath fresh snowfall can create deceptively slick surfaces, particularly on bridges, overpasses, and untreated residential streets.

Meteorologists indicate that snowfall is expected to taper off later Thursday night into early Friday morning. However, even after precipitation ends, drifting snow and lingering ice may continue to pose risks during the morning commute.

Residents are encouraged to monitor local weather updates and traffic advisories before venturing out. Officials also recommend assembling winter emergency kits in vehicles, including blankets, flashlights, food, water, and phone chargers, in case travel becomes unavoidable.

As crews work to restore safer driving conditions, the overarching message from law enforcement remains clear: stay home if you can. Reducing nonessential travel not only protects individual drivers but also supports first responders and public works teams working to manage the impact of the storm.

This remains a developing situation, and further updates are expected as cleanup efforts continue and officials assess overnight conditions.

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Tags: #hazardous road conditions, #winter emergency kits

#plows and treatment vehicles #Lincoln Police Department