Most of south-central Nebraska, including cities like Hastings, Grand Island, and Kearney, experienced much less rainfall than usual in May 2025. Despite some late-month showers, the overall rainfall totals remained well below normal.
Rainfall Totals Fall Short of Average
According to the National Weather Service in Hastings, most areas received between 1.50 and 4.50 inches of rain, which is only 35% to 100% of what they normally get in May. Hastings recorded just 1.67 inches of rain, which is only 38% of its typical May rainfall. Grand Island had 3.14 inches (67% of normal), and Kearney saw 2.98 inches (68%). This was the driest May for Hastings since 2022 and one of the driest for Grand Island and Kearney since 2023.
Very Low Rainfall in Some Southwest Counties
Southwest counties like Furnas and parts of Nuckolls had some of the lowest rainfall amounts. Beaver City, for example, recorded only 1.02 inches. On the other hand, some northeast and southeast Nebraska areas, like Oak and Lawrence, saw heavy rain, with totals above 7 inches due to strong storms around May 18–19.
Residents Urged to Monitor Water Use
Because of the dry conditions, people are encouraged to watch soil moisture carefully and conserve water. Summer planting and irrigation needs will increase, and without steady rain, dryness may continue into early June.
Possible Drought Warnings Ahead
If the lack of rain continues, more updates and drought advisories could be issued soon to help communities prepare.
