Lightning suspected cause of two new fires in Nebraska sandhills

Two Sandhills wildfires have grown to more than 49,000 acres with no containment. Officials say dry lightning likely sparked the Ashby and Minor fires.

March 26, 2026Updated: March 26, 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

Wisner man charged in father's killing asks judge to move trial

Severe thunderstorm watch issued for Nebraska Panhandle, southeast Wyoming; hail to 2 inches, 70 mph winds possible

Nebraska introduces new teacher certification program

Lightning suspected cause of two new fires in Nebraska sandhills

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

Wisner man charged in father's killing asks judge to move trial

Severe thunderstorm watch issued for Nebraska Panhandle, southeast Wyoming; hail to 2 inches, 70 mph winds possible

Nebraska introduces new teacher certification program

UNK’s Dolence receives $500,000 grant for peanut allergy research

Dog with cancer finds new purpose fostering kittens in Omaha

Deadly crash in Valentine over the weekend

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