Fire south of Peetz grows to 4,000 acres; evacuation orders lifted

The grass fire south of Peetz grew to an estimated 3,500-4,000 acres before reaching 80% containment Wednesday afternoon. Evacuation orders for Padroni and surrounding areas have been lifted. No structures or livestock were lost.

February 26, 2026Updated: February 26, 2026
Forrest HershbergerBy Forrest Hershberger

Regional

Improperly discarded e-scooter sparks fire at SWANN facility in Chadron

A fire at a Solid Waste Agency of Northwest Nebraska (SWANN) facility in Chadron on Friday was caused by an improperly disposed electric scooter, according to the agency.

Southeast Nebraska first responders again assist Western Nebraska tackle wildfires

First responders from across Southeast Nebraska have responded to four serious wildfires in other parts of the state so far this year, the latest of which broke out near Crawford earlier this month

James Lucero sworn in as Kimball Chief of Police

James Lucero sworn in as Kimball Chief of Police

Storm damages communications tower in Cherry County

A powerful storm late last month damaged a communications tower in Cherry County.