If you’re planning to spend time outdoors around Memorial Day in Nebraska, you really need to pay attention to the weather. Most years, daytime highs land in the upper 60s to upper 80s, and mornings often start anywhere from the 40s to 60s.
That range makes late May feel like a true transition between spring and summer. Conditions can shift fast, going from cool and breezy to warm and humid before you know it.
You also have to be ready for rain or storms. Thunderstorms show up a lot this time of year. Some years, you get sunny skies, but others bring heavy downpours or even severe weather.
If you want to hit the lake, go camping, or just hang out with family, knowing these patterns helps you plan. Nebraska’s regions don’t always match up—Omaha’s weather can look pretty different from Norfolk or Grand Island.
By checking long-term records and past extremes, you get a better idea of what’s typical and what might surprise you. That background can help you make smarter choices for travel and outdoor plans.
Typical Memorial Day Weather in Nebraska
When you start planning for Memorial Day in Nebraska, get ready for a mix of spring and early summer weather. Temperatures swing a lot, rain isn’t rare, and wind can absolutely factor into your plans.
Average Temperatures and Daily Ranges
In late May, Nebraska usually sees daytime highs between the upper 60s and upper 80s (°F). Mornings stay cooler, with lows from the mid-40s to low 60s. You might need a jacket at sunrise, but by afternoon, lighter clothes feel better.
Historical records from Grand Island show Memorial Day has been as hot as 103°F (1934) and as cool as 54°F (1915) for daytime highs. Overnight lows have dropped to 36°F (1947) and climbed as high as 72°F (1934).
You should expect temperature swings of 30–40 degrees in a single day. Nebraska’s spot in the middle of the country means both warm southern air and chilly northern air can roll in and shake things up.
Precipitation Patterns and Rainfall Amounts
Rain falls pretty regularly in late May across Nebraska. Long-term data from the National Centers for Environmental Information shows measurable rain on about 4 out of every 10 Memorial Days.
Amounts jump around a lot. Some years, you barely see a trace, but others bring heavy rain. Grand Island got 2.97 inches in 1935, which is still the wettest Memorial Day on record there.
In 2020, 1.60 inches fell, the first time in over forty years that Memorial Day topped an inch. Thunderstorms pop up often, and some turn severe.
Large hail, strong winds, and lightning are the main worries. If you’re heading outside, keep an eye on forecasts—storms can build fast in the afternoon or evening.
Humidity and Wind Conditions
Humidity in late May usually feels moderate, but sometimes it climbs when southerly winds drag in Gulf moisture. On warm days, especially in the upper 80s or 90s, it can feel muggy.
Wind is another thing you’ll notice. Breezy days are common, and gusts of 20–30 mph happen a lot. Sometimes, like Memorial Day 2022 in central Nebraska, gusts shot past 50 mph.
Strong winds can mess with travel, outdoor ceremonies, or even grilling and camping. If you’re visiting from out of state, Nebraska’s wind might feel stronger than what you’re used to this time of year.
Regional Differences Across Nebraska
Weather shifts a lot across Nebraska in late May. You’ll spot warmer, wetter weather in the east, more variable conditions in the center, and drier air with cool nights in the west.
These differences matter when you’re planning outdoor events or traveling for the holiday.
Eastern Nebraska Weather Characteristics
Eastern Nebraska—think Omaha and Lincoln—often feels more humid than other regions. Highs usually reach the upper 70s to mid-80s °F, and lows stick around the mid-50s to low 60s °F.
Rain shows up more often here, and late-May thunderstorms are pretty common.
Moist air from the Missouri River Valley helps fuel storms. Severe weather isn’t a guarantee, but this area faces a higher risk of strong storms than western Nebraska.
Evening storms can drop heavy rain, gusty winds, and sometimes hail. If you’re outside, remember that 40% or more of Memorial Days in this region see measurable rain.
It’s smart to carry rain gear or have an indoor backup plan.
Central Nebraska Memorial Day Climate
Central Nebraska, including Grand Island and Kearney, brings a blend of spring and summer weather. Highs usually land between the upper 60s and upper 80s °F, with lows from the mid-40s to upper 50s °F.
Past Memorial Days here have swung from the mid-50s all the way up to near 100 °F.
Rain isn’t as predictable but still shows up. About 4 out of every 10 holidays get measurable rain, with some years bringing more than an inch.
Thunderstorms can happen, but severe storms on Memorial Day itself don’t show up as often as they do in the east.
Winds matter here, too. Breezy afternoons with gusts between 25–35 mph are pretty normal and can impact gatherings or travel.
Western Nebraska Temperature and Precipitation
Western Nebraska—places like North Platte and Scottsbluff—usually stays drier and sees bigger temperature swings from day to night. Highs often hit the low to mid-70s °F, while lows dip into the 40s °F.
Nights can feel chilly, especially up in the higher spots. Rain falls less here than in the east.
Showers and storms do happen, but not as often, and they’re usually brief. The air stays less humid, so even warm afternoons feel a bit more comfortable.
You’ll probably deal with fewer weather disruptions outdoors thanks to lower rain chances. Still, strong winds can kick up, and late cold fronts sometimes make days cooler than you’d expect.
This region also gets more clear skies, so camping or hiking trips often work out well.
Historical Extremes and Notable Memorial Days
If you look back at Memorial Day weather in Nebraska, you’ll see wild swings in temperature, rainfall, and storm activity. Some years bring scorching heat or heavy rain, while others stay unusually cool and calm.
Record Highs and Lows
Memorial Day temperatures in Nebraska have jumped by nearly 50 degrees over the years. Grand Island saw the hottest at 103°F in 1934, and the chilliest daytime high at just 54°F in 1915.
Morning lows have been all over the map, too. The coldest was 36°F in 1947, and the warmest overnight low hit 72°F in 1934.
In the last 30 years, highs ranged from the mid-50s to nearly 100°F. Only a handful of Memorial Days topped 90°F, and even fewer cracked 100°F.
So, if you’re traveling, pack for both jacket weather and summer heat—Nebraska can surprise you.
Wettest and Driest Memorial Days
Rainfall records tell their own story. The wettest Memorial Day in Grand Island hit 2.97 inches in 1935, but most years, you barely see any rain.
Rain falls on about 40% of Memorial Days, according to the National Centers for Environmental Information and local weather archives.
In the last few decades, late May has leaned a bit wetter, with several years seeing over half an inch.
A standout case came in 2020, when 1.60 inches fell—the first time in over 40 years Memorial Day broke an inch. Still, sunny and dry holidays happen all the time, especially when high pressure settles in.
Notable Severe Weather Events
Severe thunderstorms are a regular late-spring risk in Nebraska, but they don’t always hit on Memorial Day itself. Grand Island’s last major outbreak was in 2011, when winds up to 74 mph caused tree and structural damage.
Some years have seen close calls. In 2019, storms with big hail hit near Kearney but missed Grand Island.
Strong winds not tied to thunderstorms have made a mark, too—like in 2022, when gusts reached 58 mph after a cold front.
Memorial Day lands right in peak storm season, so if you’re heading outside, it pays to stay weather-aware.
Climate Trends and Long-Term Patterns
Late May weather in Nebraska swings between short-term changes and bigger climate trends. You can spot shifts in average temperatures, rainfall, and storm frequency when you compare recent decades to the old records.
Recent Changes in Late May Weather
Late May in Nebraska has warmed up compared to much of the 20th century. The National Centers for Environmental Information (NCEI) says statewide average temps have climbed by more than 1.5°F since the early 1900s.
This warming trend means Memorial Day weekends now feel milder at night and hotter during the day than they did for past generations.
Rainfall patterns have shifted, too. Precipitation in late spring still jumps around, but heavy rain events have become more common in eastern Nebraska.
Meanwhile, western Nebraska often gets drier late May weather, showing that classic east-to-west transition from humid to semi-arid.
Severe weather remains a factor. Thunderstorms are still common around Memorial Day, and Nebraska Mesonet data shows stronger localized storms in recent years.
Long-term numbers point to bigger swings between dry spells and intense rain during this period.
Comparisons to Other Times of Year
If you stack up Memorial Day weather against other times of year, the seasonal contrasts stand out. Late May highs in Omaha or Lincoln usually reach the mid-70s °F, while January highs average closer to 30°F.
By July, daytime temps often push into the upper 80s or low 90s. May is one of Nebraska’s wetter months, with many places getting 3 to 4 inches on average.
That’s more than winter months, which usually bring less than an inch, but a bit less than some June totals when thunderstorms peak.
Wind speeds tend to be moderate around Memorial Day compared to March or April, when stronger gusts are more common. This makes late May a bit more comfortable for outdoor events, even though the risk of severe storms is higher than in midsummer or early fall.
Weather Preparation and Travel Tips
Nebraska’s weather around Memorial Day often brings cool mornings, scattered rain, and the chance of thunderstorms. Packing carefully and planning for changing conditions will help you stay comfortable and safe during your trip.
What to Pack for Memorial Day in Nebraska
Late May in Nebraska can swing from sunny and mild to cloudy and damp. Daytime highs often sit in the upper 50s to low 70s °F, while evenings can dip into the 40s.
Bring layers so you can adjust on the fly. A light waterproof jacket or rain shell is a must since showers pop up often.
Pair that with breathable shirts, a warm sweater or fleece, and comfortable pants. If you’re hiking or spending time outside, sturdy shoes that handle wet ground are helpful.
Don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. Even on cooler days, UV rays can be strong out on the Plains.
A small umbrella and a reusable water bottle are handy, too. For families, a dry change of clothes in the car can save the day if you get caught in a downpour.
If you’re camping, make sure your tent has a rainfly and your gear stays dry in waterproof bags.
Safety Considerations for Outdoor Activities
Memorial Day weekend usually brings unpredictable weather, with thunderstorms popping up more often than not. Severe storms tend to hit western and central Nebraska hardest, but honestly, rain and lightning can show up anywhere in the state.
Before you head out, check the National Weather Service forecast. That’s just common sense.
If you hear thunder, get inside or into a hard-topped vehicle. Don’t hang out in open fields, climb high ground, or stand under lonely trees.
Flash flooding can hit low-lying areas fast, so skip camping right next to rivers or creeks.
Cooler-than-average temps mean you’ll want to prepare for long stretches outside, especially if it’s damp. Hypothermia can sneak up on you if you’re wet and it’s stuck in the 50s.
Pack extra dry clothing and skip cotton—once it’s wet, it stays wet.
If you’re driving, remember that wet conditions make it harder to see and stop.
Try to keep your gas tank at least half full in case you get stuck somewhere, and toss a basic emergency kit in the car with blankets, snacks, and a flashlight.
Data Sources and Further Reading
If you look into Nebraska’s Memorial Day weather, you’ll find a mix of long-term climate records and some handy online tools.
These sources give you both the big picture and simple ways to check what happened on certain dates or in certain places.
Official Weather Records and Averages
Government agencies keep the most reliable long-term climate records. The National Centers for Environmental Information (NCEI), which is part of NOAA, stores detailed data on temperature, rainfall, and severe weather.
You can dig through their archives to see how things have changed over the past century or so.
In Nebraska, cities like Grand Island, Lincoln, and North Platte have kept records since the late 1800s. These weather stations track highs, lows, rain, and wind.
Grand Island, for example, has seen Memorial Day highs anywhere from the mid-50s to well over 100°F.
The National Weather Service (NWS) also shares climate summaries and event reports.
Local offices in Hastings, North Platte, and Omaha publish climatology reports with the extremes, averages, and trends.
Usually, these reports have charts and tables that make it easier to compare one year to the next.
If you want official averages, stick to these federal datasets instead of short-term recaps.
They’ll give you the clearest idea of what’s normal and how strange any given year might have been.
Useful Online Resources
You can find past weather data online without digging through raw datasets. The Old Farmer’s Almanac weather history tool lets you search by date and location, pulling info from over a thousand reporting stations.
It’s super handy if you just want to check temperatures or rainfall for a specific Memorial Day.
Websites like Weather Underground and NOAA’s Climate Data Online show daily records, monthly averages, and long-term climate charts. You can filter by city, date, or even pick a variable like precipitation totals or high temperatures.
If you’re after a broader view, climate comparison sites let you see side-by-side averages for different Nebraska cities. For example, you might compare late-May weather in Omaha with North Platte, and usually, you’ll spot some differences in rainfall or daily highs.
Mixing official records with these easy-to-use tools gives you detailed historical data and quick reference points. You can plan activities, check storm risks, or just satisfy your curiosity about how often Memorial Day ends up sunny instead of cool and rainy.