Wildfire prompts evacuations in Garden, Keith Counties as flames push toward Lake McConaughy

A fast-moving wildfire has prompted mandatory evacuations in Garden County north of Lake McConaughy as shifting winds push the fire south. The Lake Mac Visitor Center is now open as a shelter for evacuees.

March 13, 2026Updated: March 17, 2026

By News Channel Nebraska

Wildfire prompts evacuations in Garden, Keith Counties as flames push toward Lake McConaughy

Regional

Gordon city council declines fireworks ban amid elevated fire risk

Despite ongoing concerns about wildfire risk, fireworks will be allowed within Gordon city limits this Independence Day after the city council did not approve a temporary ban.

Drowning death under investigation at Johnson Lake

Allen woman charged after allegedly driving into Merriman business

A 30-year-old Allen woman is facing multiple charges after authorities say she drove a pickup into a Merriman business.

Man sentenced to life in Winner killing, later commuted by Governor Noem, now charged in 14-year-old’s death

A 51-year-old Sioux Falls man who was sentenced to life in prison for a 1994 killing in Winner is now facing federal charges in connection with the death of a 14-year-old girl.

Wildfire prompts evacuations in Garden, Keith Counties as flames push toward Lake McConaughy

Regional

Gordon city council declines fireworks ban amid elevated fire risk

Drowning death under investigation at Johnson Lake

Allen woman charged after allegedly driving into Merriman business

Man sentenced to life in Winner killing, later commuted by Governor Noem, now charged in 14-year-old’s death

State

Tornado Watch issued for Northeast Colorado counties

National Weather Service issues Tornado Watch for Nebraska Panhandle

Southwest Nebraska and Northeast Colorado hit with Severe Weather Wednesday evening

Rising from the ashes, Creighton Main Street staples find temporary home after devastating fire

New eagle sculpture takes flight at Buffalo County Fairgrounds

City of Kimball to host annual Fourth of July Pool Party

Sports

4-H nationals bring thousands to Grand Island

Oklahoma dominates UNC, wins first College World Series since 1994

Hundreds of hoopers compete at growing UNK basketball camp

UNC takes game two of CWS finals, forces winner-take-all Monday night

Behind two homers from LeChance, Oklahoma takes game one of MCWS final

Hundreds of wrestlers pack downtown Grand Island for Friday Night Lights event

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