A severe blizzard has swept through northwest Kansas and central Nebraska, leading to widespread power outages affecting tens of thousands of residents. With wind gusts reaching up to 70 mph, icy precipitation has wreaked havoc on electrical systems, resulting in significant disruptions to daily life as utility companies scramble to restore service.
As of 9:15 AM on March 19, 2025, reports indicate that over 32,000 Kansans were left without electric power, according to poweroutage.us. Counties bearing the brunt of these outages include Ellis, Gove, Graham, Ness, Osborne, Rooks, and Russell. Specifically, about 4,600 Midwest Energy customers in Hays alone were affected, with earlier reports indicating a city-wide electrical outage in Russell attributed to falling power lines due to heavy winds and snow.
In Nebraska, the picture is similarly bleak. Nebraska Public Power District reported over 11,000 customers without service statewide as of midday, with Omaha Public Power District noting that approximately 30,000 customers were in the dark. The majority of these outages occurred in Douglas County, although the impact also extended into regions like Saunders and Dodge counties, particularly affecting towns such as Arlington, Yutan, and North Bend.
High winds and whiteout conditions have complicated restoration efforts, forcing utility workers to navigate treacherous situations as they attempt to repair damaged infrastructure. Southern Public Power District confirmed on their Facebook page, "Unfortunately, the weather is winning this morning. It's not much of an update, but please know that while crews are out working, this is one of those storms that is fighting them every step of the way." Such statements underline the struggle utility companies face during such severe weather.
By midday, the blizzard's reach forced highway closures across the affected regions. In northwest Kansas, the Kansas Department of Transportation announced that all highways had been closed, particularly highlighting the closure of I-70 between Salina and the Colorado border. Motorists were cautioned to avoid all non-essential travel until conditions improved. According to Hays Post, “Motorists currently on the road are advised to seek shelter until the storm moves through.” This was not just a safety recommendation but a necessity, given the brutal weather conditions.
Conditions worsened as the day progressed. In Nebraska, outages were reported throughout Lincoln, where almost 4,000 customers faced disruptions according to the Lincoln Electric System. The Hastings Utilities website indicated numerous outages scattered throughout its service area by the northern, western, and southern ends of the city, with over 4,500 customers without power as of 7:55 AM. The Adams County Emergency Management Agency alerted residents in Hastings who faced power outages even early in the morning, urging people to remain indoors and avoid travel.
The Loup Valley Rural Public Power District also chimed in regarding severe outages in a corridor between Burwell and Arcadia, reflecting widespread issues across Nebraska. Workers from various utility agencies were dispatched to handle fallen lines, but reports indicated many were pulled back due to extreme winds, leaving outages unresolved. With frost accumulating heavily and visibility diminishing, crews struggled to reach many of the reported outages.
In addition to those already affected, many cities expected further challenges as snow continued to fall. Many families were urged to prepare for extended outages, as many residents had no power for hours, leading to rising concerns regarding heating and safety. The Hastings Utilities reiterated the necessity for patience while crews navigated the severe weather conditions.
Local officials reminded residents that unconventional methods for heating homes could be dangerous. The Adams County Emergency Management head, Ron Pughes, stated, “If you use a generator, keep it outside and make sure there is ample clearance and ventilation for the unit.”
As evening approaches, the outlook remains uncertain. The combination of wind and precipitation continues to take a toll on recovery efforts, and many communities across both states are expected to be grappling with power outages as the storm persists. Those without power have been left vulnerable amid a historic blizzard, with efforts to restore service projected to take time as utility workers battle the elements.
In conclusion, Kansas and Nebraska face a challenging recovery from this severe winter storm. Residents are advised to stay informed through local news and utility companies while heeding advisories to avoid travel and take precautions against the bitter cold until conditions improve.
