High Wind Watch, Fire Weather Watch issued for region as winter weather looms

High Wind and Fire Weather Watches issued for the Nebraska Panhandle, southeast Wyoming and northeast Colorado.

February 16, 2026Updated: February 16, 2026

By News Channel Nebraska

Regional

Amid Harsh National Political Rhetoric, a Different Kind of Message in Cherry County Sheriff’s Race

Amid Harsh National Political Rhetoric, a Different Kind of Message in Cherry County Sheriff’s Race

Disease outbreak cuts Wyoming, Yellowstone wolf numbers to lowest level since reintroduction era

Disease outbreak cuts Wyoming, Yellowstone wolf numbers to lowest level since reintroduction era

Denver airport security missed trespasser who was killed by plane on runway

Denver airport security missed trespasser who was killed by plane on runway

Black bear safely captured after wandering into east Cheyenne neighborhood

Black bear safely captured after wandering into east Cheyenne neighborhood

State

Scott Petersen wins GOP primary race for Nebraska secretary of state against incumbent Bob Evnen

Waddling Into Town? Valentine Council to Consider Allowing Ducks Into City Limits, Possible Water Study, Wellness Center Funding Application and Subdivision Plans

Amid Harsh National Political Rhetoric, a Different Kind of Message in Cherry County Sheriff’s Race

Ricketts secures primary victory during Kearney watch party

Red flag warnings, dangerous fire conditions continue across western Nebraska, northeast Colorado

THAYER COUNTY: Koch advances in bid to retain county board seat; will face Brandt in general

Sports

Paul Skenes takes a no-hitter into the 7th, strikes out 10 as Pirates topple Rockies 3-1

Sidney piles up state qualifiers at B-6 district meet in Alliance

Two Peru State College Men's Basketball Players Earn NAIA Scholar-Athlete Honors

Avalanche bounce back to beat the Wild 5-2 and take a 3-1 lead in the series

Doane hosting 2026 NAIA baseball opening round in Lincoln

WNCC baseball ends season with loss to Southeast at regionals

Ag & Outdoor

Powell wins 56th Cornhusker Trap Shoot

Outdoor notes: Spring shotgun turkey season opens

Outdoor notes: Bighorn sheep regular lottery applications begin April 20

Outdoor notes: NGPC offering pastures, hay tracts to those affected by wildfires

Outdoor notes: Work to begin soon on Smith Lake WMA Aquatic Habitat Project

Outdoor notes: Game and Parks urges caution when recreating outdoors due to wildfires