BEATRICE, Neb. - It's been a mild start to winter for southeast Nebraska, but that all could soon change. 

“We’ve got to be prepared at home, those traveling have to be prepared on the roads, and if you’re driving to and from work be prepared.”

Gage County Emergency Manager Lisa Wiegand is continuing to monitor an approaching winter storm, that could bring anywhere from 6”-18” of snow to southeast Nebraska, while the NWS says Gage County falls in the eight to twelve inch range.

It’s a busy weekend for sports as well, with a number of high school games and Husker basketball Saturday and Sunday in Lincoln.

“There’s no stopping a sports advocate,” Wiegand said. “The reality is, our community loves its sports. When there’s an event, the proper authority and administrators have to make those difficult calls… The National Weather Service is a great asset for us as Emergency Managers abut getting timely forecasts out.”

While roads in towns like Beatrice get treated promptly, that’s not always the case for Gage County’s many rural county roads. Wiegand of course preaches staying home if possible, as road conditions lead to difficulties for authorities. If you do go out and run into a problem, there’s steps to be taken.


“When you call into dispatch, give a general area, then, if your car has shut down, stay in your car,” Wiegand said. “Try not to walk out, so if we can get to you, you can be in constant contact.”

When driving during winter weather, Wiegand also suggests staying in contact with someone.

“Keep in constant contact - ‘Hey, I took off’ and be happy when they arrive, if not, call the authorities.”