State senator surveys historic Morrill Fire as blaze becomes fifth largest fire in U.S. history

The Morrill Fire has now burned more than 570,000 acres across western Nebraska, making it the largest wildfire in state history. State Sen. Paul Strommen toured the damage Saturday and says the scale of the fire is “extraordinarily large.”

March 16, 2026Updated: March 17, 2026

By News Channel Nebraska

Regional

Heart City Cattle Battle expected to grow in year five

Dozens of young cattle exhibitors from several states are in Valentine this weekend, preparing their animals for the annual Heart City Cattle Battle.

Farm animal welfare rules might be rolled back by Congress

The last country school in Scottsbluff shuts its doors

Researchers study microfossils at Toadstool Geologic Park

State

Scottsbluff Public Schools to go cashless for events beginning in 2026-27

Severe thunderstorm warning issued west of Sterling

Flooding keeps L-62A closed north of Bayard after up to 5 inches of rain

State senator surveys historic Morrill Fire as blaze becomes fifth largest fire in U.S. history

Regional

Heart City Cattle Battle expected to grow in year five

Farm animal welfare rules might be rolled back by Congress

The last country school in Scottsbluff shuts its doors

Researchers study microfossils at Toadstool Geologic Park

State

Scottsbluff Public Schools to go cashless for events beginning in 2026-27

Severe thunderstorm warning issued west of Sterling

Flooding keeps L-62A closed north of Bayard after up to 5 inches of rain

High winds, flash flooding, hail pummel Panhandle

Community mourns loss of Bill Maddox

Damaging winds, large hail and flooding reported as storms sweep across southern Panhandle

Sports

Gary Sánchez hits first homer since April 14, Brewers complete sweep of Rockies with 12-4 win

Brewers score 8 late runs, stun Rockies 9-7 in wild 10-inning victory

Nebraska coaches share ideas and build connections during Shrine Bowl week

Kearney athletes embrace hometown opportunity during Shrine Bowl week

Shrine Bowl South players reflect on hometown pride ahead of final high school game

North team building chemistry ahead of Saturday's Shrine Bowl

Ag & Outdoor

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

Outdoor notes: Campers invited to take state park survey

Feed supplies tighten for Nebraska producers as drought persists