Hastings, NE – South-central Nebraska is enjoying an early taste of warmth this November, but forecasters say residents should prepare for a quick cooldown and possible rain as a new system pushes through early next week. According to the National Weather Service in Hastings, temperatures could reach near 80 degrees today, with breezy sunshine continuing through the weekend before a Monday rain chance marks the start of a more typical late-autumn pattern.
The Current Pattern: Unseasonably Warm November Weather
A soft south breeze and mild sunrise greeted Hastings on Friday, signaling a continuation of the region’s warm spell. Temperatures have climbed well above normal, with highs in the upper 70s and near 80 degrees expected through Saturday.
Meteorologists say this warmth is the result of a ridge of high pressure sitting across the central Plains, keeping skies clear and air masses stable.
“This is an unusually warm stretch for mid-November,” said the National Weather Service in Hastings. “It’s a great opportunity for outdoor chores, leaf cleanup, or early holiday travel before the pattern changes next week.”
The mild air has kept roads dry and travel smooth, offering one last burst of fall comfort before cooler weather returns.
The Transition: Rain Chance and Temperature Drop by Monday
By late Sunday night into Monday, models suggest a weak disturbance approaching from the west could bring light rain and cooler air to the region. The system is expected to trigger a 40% chance of rain Monday, especially west of Interstate 80.
Forecasters say the shift will be noticeable. Daytime highs could fall from the 70s into the low 50s, and overnight lows could dip into the 30s, signaling the start of a cooler, more unsettled stretch.
“We’re not looking at snow just yet,” forecasters explained, “but the incoming moisture and falling temperatures could make for a chilly, breezy Monday evening.”
Travelers returning from weekend trips are advised to watch for thickening clouds and scattered showers, particularly during the afternoon commute. Wind direction is also expected to shift quickly as the cold air moves in from the northwest.
Extended Forecast: Cooler Week Ahead with More Rain Chances
The warm-to-cool transition will continue into early next week, bringing a more seasonable November pattern. Tuesday looks cooler but partly sunny, followed by another slight chance for rain midweek as deeper Gulf moisture streams into the Plains.
By the middle of the week, forecasters expect temperatures to remain in the upper 40s to near 50 degrees, with lows in the low 30s. While snow is not expected, the stronger cold fronts forecast for the week of Thanksgiving could bring the season’s first winter-like chill to Nebraska.
Meteorologists urge early travelers to stay updated on forecasts in the days ahead, as pattern shifts this time of year can be sudden and impactful.
Five-Day Forecast for Hastings, NE
Friday: 80° / 50° – Sunny and warm; breezy at times.
Saturday: 67° / 40° – Mostly sunny; gusty west winds midday.
Sunday: 62° / 39° – Cooler, sunny, and dry.
Monday: 52° / 31° – 40% chance of rain; breezy and turning cooler.
Tuesday: 48° / 32° – Partly sunny; light northwest breeze.
Conclusion
Hastings and surrounding areas are wrapping up the week with pleasantly warm conditions, but by Monday, residents should prepare for a sharp temperature drop and a chance of light rain. With colder air expected to build toward Thanksgiving, the brief burst of warmth may be the last for a while.
What are your thoughts on this changing weather pattern? Share your experiences and forecasts in the comments below.
