High winds cause outages, spark fires and prompt evacuations across region

Wind gusts over 70 mph, power outages across the Panhandle and a large wind-driven wildfire in Morgan County prompting evacuations. High Wind and Red Flag Warnings remain in effect.

February 17, 2026Updated: February 17, 2026

By News Channel Nebraska

High winds cause outages, spark fires and prompt evacuations across region

Regional

North Platte Man Charged in Adams County Child Enticement Case

TT’s Pub & Grub completes expansion of entertainment room

Former Valentine police officer sentenced for DUI, changes plea in assault case

A former Valentine police officer has been sentenced in two misdemeanor cases and has changed his plea in a separate felony assault case.

Perkins County Canal could move one step closer under Senate legislation

State

North Platte Man Charged in Adams County Child Enticement Case

Superintendent cites little more than $1 million in staff reductions

TT’s Pub & Grub completes expansion of entertainment room

High winds cause outages, spark fires and prompt evacuations across region

Regional

North Platte Man Charged in Adams County Child Enticement Case

TT’s Pub & Grub completes expansion of entertainment room

Former Valentine police officer sentenced for DUI, changes plea in assault case

Perkins County Canal could move one step closer under Senate legislation

State

North Platte Man Charged in Adams County Child Enticement Case

Superintendent cites little more than $1 million in staff reductions

TT’s Pub & Grub completes expansion of entertainment room

Warrants lead to drug trafficking, firearms charges

Under guidance from SATRA, Southeast Nebraska first responders ascend Farmers Cooperative grain silos for specialized rescue training

Former Valentine police officer sentenced for DUI, changes plea in assault case

Sports

Bobcat basketball misses 2026 tournament goal

State Little League tournaments in Kearney sets participation record

Nebraska Select soccer team earns trip to national tournament

Auburn Boys Basketball Head Coach Jim Weeks named NHSACA Coach of the Year

Wild Horse Golf Club unveils renovated clubhouse, new short course

Longtime high school coach enters national hall of fame

Ag & Outdoor

Outdoor notes: Birding Bowl inspires generous next step

Outdoor notes: Tips for enjoying water safely this summer

Outdoor notes: Rare lake sturgeon made 681-mile swim

Outdoor notes: Low water affecting Nebraska boaters this summer

Ag notes: Cattle placements rise 6% during April

NGPC still offers grazing, haying opportunities