Strong winds force closure of Interstate

SCOTTSBLUFF, Neb. (AP) — The Nebraska State Patrol says portions of Interstate 80 and two other highways in western Nebraska have reopened following their closure because of blowing dirt and strong winds.

Interstate 80 and U.S. Highway 30 west of Big Springs were closed early Thursday afternoon. Nebraska Highway 26 from Lewellen to Ogallala also was closed because of reduced visibility.

In Box Butte County, the sheriff's office says the wind blew over a semitrailer near Berea, about 10 miles north of Alliance.

In Red Willow County, wind-blown branches briefly knocked out power twice in some parts of McCook.

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