Cold weather updates: Metro Transit ending Omaha-area bus service early

OMAHA, Neb. (WOWT) - Here are the latest updates on the impacts of Thursday’s extreme cold.

Metro Transit had adjusted bus schedules during the extreme cold, following similar schedules for most routes as those operated on Saturdays. But Thursday afternoon, Metro announced it would end all services at 8 p.m. and delay Friday starts to 6:30 a.m.

Riders were encouraged to check schedule updates online or download the MyRide OMA app to keep updated on the latest route adjustments; or call 402-341-0800 for assistance.

The extreme cold is affecting how the city works to keep roads safe. It's also affecting Omaha Metro bus lines.

Snow totals came in under what had been forecasted, according to Senior Chief Meteorologist Rusty Lord.

Eppley Airfield recorded 1.5 inches, Valley had about an inch, and most locations were around those measurements, though there was 2.4 inches recorded in Underwood, Iowa.

Some more snowfall reports have come in. 3" or less around the area. Amazing how the moisture just didn't materialize with this one. Arctic air just bulldozed through and shut off the snow quickly. Post your measured totals here. pic.twitter.com/8AOIeIH5bX
— Rusty Lord WOWT (@RustyLord) December 22, 2022

If these first few rounds of snow are any indication, it’s going to be a LOOOOOONG winter of forecasting snow.
— Rusty Lord WOWT (@RustyLord) December 22, 2022

But the real impact of the winter system is the extreme cold — wind chills could reach as low as 40-below — and terrible winds that will blow snow around throughout the day Thursday and into the night.

Nebraska state troopers faced some harsh conditions Wednesday night while helping drivers.

Motorist assists are racking up this morning. Troopers have helped about 100 motorists already today. That's in addition to about 200 yesterday.

Please take it slow if you have to travel today. And if you get stranded, call for help! Don't leave your vehicle in these conditions. pic.twitter.com/lHWnOtyv3E
— Nebraska State Patrol (@NEStatePatrol) December 22, 2022

If you are able to stay at home today we highly encourage staying put. If you must travel today, please be extra careful.

Before you hit the road - remember to put a winter weather kit in your vehicle, dress warmly, and check https://t.co/dMWDoxmD2N for road updates! pic.twitter.com/Jgg6022rKs
— Nebraska DOT (@NebraskaDOT) December 22, 2022

UPDATES: Local closings & delays

Holiday travelers are advised to check the status of their flights as more than 1,700 flights across the country have been canceled and more than 2,700 have delayed. Eppley Airfield was showing canceled flights from Delta and Southwest, affecting travel to and from Atlanta, New York, Salt Lake City, Detroit, Denver, and Chicago.

Many flights have been canceled due to the winter weather gripping the nation, including some here in Omaha.

RELATED: Multiple cancellations, delays reported at LNK airport

Omaha road crews have switched to sand to increase traction on snowy and icy streets as salt becomes ineffective on the pavement in extremely cold temperatures.

The Salvation Army has warming centers open Thursday and Friday for those needing shelter during the day.

Omaha North Corps, located near 24th and Pratt streets, and the Omaha Kroc Center, located near 28th and Y streets, are both open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Omaha Citadel Corps, at 37th and Cuming streets, is open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Those going out and about in the dangerous cold are advised to layer up and take it slow.

And don’t forget to keep your pets safe in the cold, too. Make sure they have a warm shelter — if it’s too cold for you to be outside, then it’s also too cold for them. Keep them groomed and don’t forget to protect their paws as the chemicals used to keep streets and sidewalks safe for people can be harmful to animals.

Keep them warm and groomed, and don't forget to protect their paws.

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