"Largest fire in Nebraska history": Morrill Fire grows to nearly 549,000 acres across western Nebraska

Crews from more than 30 departments are battling the fire as Blackhawk helicopters and National Guard crews assist. One death has been confirmed.

March 15, 2026Updated: March 17, 2026

By News Channel Nebraska

Regional

Fire near Chadron reaches 90% containment, rugged terrain slows progress in northwest area

Fire near Chadron reaches 90% containment, rugged terrain slows progress in northwest area

Grizzly Bear Fire contained, Ash Pole Fire 47% contained near Chadron

Grizzly Fire contained, Ash Pole Fire 47% contained near Chadron

Fatal crash closes Northbound Interstate 25

Fatal crash closes Northbound Interstate 25

Denver native serves aboard one of world's largest warships

Denver native serves aboard one of world's largest warships

State

Farnam Volunteer Fire Fighters appreciation dinner interrupted by a grass fire

Freeze watch issued across Nebraska Panhandle region after weekend storms

Fire near Chadron reaches 90% containment, rugged terrain slows progress in northwest area

Severe storm causes significant damage in Fairbury; cleanup process underway

Second round of severe weather for southern Nebraska

Scottsbluff crash traps driver, no hospital transports reported

Sports

McCarthy singles twice and has an RBI against former team, helping Rockies beat Diamondbacks 4-2

Deep, star-studded Avalanche reach the conference finals for 8th time since arriving in Denver

West Nebraska All-Star Games announce 2026 football, volleyball coaching staffs

Bridgeport, Kimball punch state tickets at Class C-9 district meet

Scottsbluff edges Sidney for team title at Ogallala Invitational

Bayard sweeps team titles at Class D-9 district meet

Ag & Outdoor

Outdoor notes: Invasive Species Awareness Week is May 24-30

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